Networking Success – 7 Tips for Giving Compliments That Connect and Attract Clients

Paying a sincere compliment is an ideal way to connect with someone at a networking event because it attracts people to you, helps solidify bonds, and lifts people’s spirits.

A sincere compliment is like a gift because it makes both you and the receiver feel good. It’s an ideal way to break the ice and connect at a business or social event. It’s worthwhile learning how to compliment people the right way. Here are 5 tips for giving compliments that connect people and attract interaction.

1. Be sincere. It’s easy to tell the difference between a true compliment, and sounding like you are kissing up. What’s the difference? Only compliment something that deserves it. If the speech was a flop, compliment the speaker instead on their savvy handling of the Q&A. It’s easy to spot phoniness, and people know what they did well, and where they fell short of the mark.

2. Be specific. Instead of saying: You are a wonderful cook, say: Your chocolate mousse was decadent. Do you have a special recipe? Instead of saying: You look nice today, you can say: That scarf is a great color for you. Even more specific: That blue scarf is a great color because it matches your eyes.

3. Be careful of backhanded compliments. Have you ever been the victim of someone saying to you: Wow, what a change – you look so much better. It makes you wonder how bad you really looked last time. Instead, you can say: You look terrific. What’s your secret?

4. Cross gender compliments: When men compliment women, focus on accessories rather than clothing items. So you can compliment a woman on her necklace, but not her blouse. Even better, compliment her excellent speech or stellar performance on a major project. Women can also compliment a man’s tie, rather than a shirt. Women can be freer to compliment other women on their fabulous shoes or dress, when men should steer away from anything too personal in complimenting women. They can be perceived as being too forward.

5. Be appropriate: Consider the setting and your relationship with the person. Commenting on a colleague’s new hair color is fine, but mentioning it to your boss is stepping out of bounds. Or telling the bride that she looks lovely is fine, but save your congratulations on her losing 50 pounds for private time.

Do you have other ways to strengthen your business relationships? Comment below. I’d love to hear about them.