06 February 2025

The Secret to Giving Compliments That Stand Out

Megan

How to Give Compliments That Actually Stand Out

Compliments are like currency — they only carry value when they’re real. A generic “You look nice” or “You’re cool” feels like Monopoly money. Forgettable. Meaningless. If you want to leave an impression, your compliments need to be specific, thoughtful, and a little unexpected.

Here’s how to elevate your compliment game and make your words stick.

1. Be Specific

Skip the generic “You’re so pretty.” Instead, notice the details. Compliment the way someone’s smile lights up a room, how their energy draws people in, or a unique accessory that fits their personality. Specific compliments feel personal, genuine, and impossible to forget.

2. Go Beyond Looks

Complimenting appearance is fine, but what people truly remember is when you notice their personality, character, or actions. Try:

  • “I admire how you make people feel at ease.”

  • “Your sense of humor is the perfect mix of wit and warmth.”

  • “Your drive is inspiring — it motivates me, too.”

These go deeper than surface-level flattery and make someone feel truly seen.

3. Keep It Cool

Too many compliments back-to-back feel fake. Choose quality over quantity. A well-timed, meaningful compliment will always hit harder than a dozen generic ones.

4. Recognize Effort, Not Just Results

Don’t just celebrate wins — acknowledge the grind behind them. Say things like:

  • “I’m impressed with how much work you’ve put into this project.”

  • “Your dedication to self-improvement really shows.”

When you compliment effort, you validate persistence and resilience, which people value deeply.

5. Inspire Growth

Some of the best compliments challenge people to embrace their strengths even more. For example:

  • “You’re a natural leader — you should step into that role more often.”

  • “Your creativity is strong. I’d love to see you push it further.”

This type of encouragement makes compliments memorable because they’re not just praise — they’re empowering.

6. Add Humor

Humor makes compliments fun and sticky. Try lines like:

  • “Your style makes the rest of us look like we just rolled out of bed.”

  • “You’ve got to be a wizard — you always keep things interesting.”

Funny compliments lighten the mood and leave people smiling.

7. Nail the Timing

Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment. Compliments land best when they’re in the moment. Notice something right away and say it then. Spontaneity makes it authentic.

8. Always Be Genuine

The golden rule: only give compliments you mean. Forced or exaggerated flattery feels fake, and people can tell. Authenticity is what makes your words stick long after you’ve said them.

Final Thoughts: Make Compliments Count

Compliments aren’t about throwing words around — they’re about connection. When you’re specific, genuine, and thoughtful, your compliments will resonate. Instead of cookie-cutter flattery, aim for words that make people feel truly valued. That’s how you leave an impression that lasts.