How a Compliment Can Lead to Success

by: Marjorie Geiser

February 6 is PAY-A-COMPLIMENT DAY ©1995, and the request of the founder of this day is that we all make genuine and soulful Compliments all day.

In 1995, Adrienne Soux Koopersmith was inspired to create this special day as a result of witnessing a bus driver make an unplanned stop for a lady trying to catch the bus during a blistery, February Chicago day. Granted, this was an act of kindness, but as Ms. Koopersmith left the bus, she complimented the bus driver, who seemed very pleased to accept this compliment. As a result, Pay-A-Compliment Day ©1995 was created.

Let’s look at how paying a compliment can lead to success, though!

• Compliments, when given in earnest, can be a very simple yet powerful relationship building tool. It is a way to honestly connect with another human being. Try it today! Afterall, it IS the day for them! In fact, I challenge you to give away no less than SIX compliments today! Can you do it? Let me know!

• Giving away a compliment can also strengthen relationships, boost your self-esteem, and increase your self-confidence.  Can you imagine what is possible if you have increased self-confidence? Just about anything is possible!

• In a networking situation, giving away compliments helps you achieve what good networking is all about: It helps you put the focus on the other person. It takes you away from thinking about yourself, opening you up to develop real relationships from this event.

• Finally, as the recipient of a compliment, this also can help lead to success, simply by your response. I teach my clients how to toot their own horn, and by graciously accepting a compliment, you are agreeing that yea, you ARE pretty good! And, afterall, if YOU can’t say that, then how will people know? So, when you are given a compliment, accept it. And if this is hard for you, simply say, “Thank You.”

Take advantage of PAY-A-COMPLIMENT DAY ©1995, today, and start practicing this special act! Who knows: It COULD become a habit!