Say the compliment out loud. I have some coworkers I really dig working with. I think that every time we do projects. So SAY it.

“I really enjoy working with you! We always get it done and it’s always super collaborative!”

Don’t just THINK the compliment. Say it. Then tell their boss.

@shanselman Exactly! Many people thrive from words of affirmation. The folks that don’t thrive on that recognition may tell you. From there you can figure out how to recognize them in a way they appreciate
@shanselman I had a good experience saying this to a coworker who just started on my team last week. I simply told him that last week was the best week of work I've had in a long time, and it was true!

@shanselman something like the aphorism with which I’ve grown up ( well, sorta ) since the late 80s

“A pat on the back is six* ribs higher than a kick in the pants, but 10x more effective”

* caveat - IANAD

Also, you get more with honey, than with vinegar

Critique in private, congratulate in public

Oh, and be objective

#believe #TedLasso

We should write a book

@shanselman I would like to add that when you have the ability to affect someone's career in a positive way (& deserving) by speaking to your leaders or theirs, do it!

@shanselman unknowingly, I did it today, towards a (young) coworker for which I predict a great career.

It feels so great to honestly express gratitude and give encouragement.

@shanselman this is seriously one of my favorite things to do at work.

Coworker Does Awesome? Brag on them!

@shanselman bosses are really surprised when someone tells them that about a direct report.
@shanselman I would but the only compliment I have is that my job and everyone I work with make me grateful that I don’t work weekend.
@shanselman yeah, better plan, tell the person, convince her to leave, start a new business, and bye bye “boss! “
@shanselman I've taken this to heart, and I do it the best I can. The advice to tell their boss is a great idea, too!

@shanselman I may be an outlier but I don’t like compliments from coworkers. Saying I’m friendly and you enjoy my company is fine, but judging my work as if you are superior is something that really irks me. I’d prefer an atmosphere where a job well done was the expectation, no mention required.

Just my 2 cents. Might be others like me.

@shanselman I will compliment your public speaking. I came to a couple of your sessions at All Things Open in the Fall and they were just fantastic.
@shanselman @jrconlin i just did that with someone today.
@shanselman Do you know it took me thirty years to realise that I should stop working for a boss if I never hear "thank you" or some form of "that's what I wanted, yes".
@shanselman We have a great time in our office: mutual respect, lots of laughter, appreciation, and sincere investment in whare happening with each other's family members.

@shanselman
My company has an employee recognition program that really just amounts to submitting a nomination and then the employee is included in the monthly list of "Rock Stars" along with the reason you have for nominating them. The nomination can have your name on it or be anonymous. It's not all that exciting

BUT some managers definitely include those RockStar nominations in performance reviews. So...that part makes it a good way to show appreciation.

@shanselman I have just realised that I have never worked on a project😳😳