How to Take a Compliment

You did an awesome job on a project at work, and your boss says, "Impressive. Great job!" What do you say? Do you say, "Thanks, I just did my job?" Don't be coy, accept your kudos! Be proud, and let your boss know you are aware that you did a great job and that you appreciate her acknowledging it. In some ways, we have little voices that whisper "Don't let your head get too big." We sometimes don't want to come across as being overly proud or egotistical about our accomplishments, especially when what we've achieved really was a major feat. That kind of thinking is self-defeating, though.

Why give excuses for being successful? When you've managed to increase sales significantly, and you know you've worked hard to do it, don't let your anti-self con you into responding to pats on the back with reasons why it may have been easy. "It is a busy season for us, though," or worse, "My colleague is the one who did most of the work!" That's right, you may not even realize it, but sometimes we all give credit to others when we are really the ones who did all the work! Really, when you do that, you may not be coming across as humble. You're probably just coming across as honest, and that hurts you, because you really weren't being honest. You didn't own up to your own talent.

So, how do you accept a pat on the back? It's simple. Just say "Thanks." Avoid the desire to keep talking about what you did, how you did it, or what helped you to do it. Smile; be appreciative; and say "thank you." You have a much bigger emotional investment in your own achievements than others do. You may feel awkward at being given compliments, and at the same time, you know you are swelling with pride; however, your boss or your coworkers are simply pleased with your great work. They want to let you know that they recognize how well you did, so the only words you need to use in response to their compliments should be a simple "thank you."