How to Respond to a Compliment

By Marty Nemko

When complimented, some people dismiss the praise: "Nah, it wasn't that great, and it was a team effort." Other people do the opposite and inflate the compliment: "Thanks. I must admit it was rather clever." In the heat of the moment, it's tough to come up with the right response to a compliment, so it's helpful to have one ready. Fortunately, the right response is usually the easiest one: a plain "Thank you." That acknowledges appreciation, doesn't devalue the complimenter's judgment, and makes you appear humble. That's a lot of benefit from just two words.