How do you respond to compliments instead of thank you?
Examples of Responding to Compliments
“Thanks so much; it is amazing coming from you.” “I think you are wonderful too.” “Amazing; I too admire this personality trait of yours.” “Thanks, it is very nice of you to say so.”
How do you respond to a compliment without flirting?
Acknowledge the compliment with gratitude – “Thanks for your sweet words!” or “Thank you so much for noticing” Don't dismiss their appreciation for you by dissolving the compliment with an answer like “No, no, this dress doesn't look that flattering on me”
Whether you were expecting to receive a compliment, it's important to acknowledge the person who has just given it to you. This can be a subtle verbal or gestural reaction, such as a smile and expression of gratitude. This shows the compliment-giver that you heard their comment and that you're pleased to receive it.
If you can honestly say he compliments you about 70-80% of the times you see him, he's definitely attracted. Keep in mind that not all guys will do that though. There are men who could be madly in love with you and never tell you a kind word. So if compliments are there, great . . . but if not, do not despair.
Showing your appreciation is an effective and simple way to respond to a compliment and make the person feel acknowledged. You can verbally demonstrate your gratitude by saying thank you, or use your body language to recognize your appreciation with a handshake, eye contact, and smile.
If you think you are owed something for complimenting someone, then that's not really flirting. A genuine compliment is for the person receiving it. It's just for that person to receive and hopefully feel good about. It's a bonus if you get to feel good about it too.
If he compliments your eyes, the color of your hair, your laugh, or an admirable aspect of your personality, then he's definitely flirting with you. He may even tease you a bit while flirting with you, like if he says something like, "That's the brightest sweater I have ever seen," but he's still flirting with you.
To let him know you're actually interested—and not just looking around the room—hold the eye contact for a few seconds. Count to three in your head and then look away. And if you're feeling extra bold, quickly look back for just one more second.
Compliment fishing is a flirting tactic where one person seeks validation or compliments by making self-deprecating statements, hoping the other person will disagree and offer praise. This strategy can help build rapport if used sparingly but may be off-putting if overdone.
All this to say, many of us respond awkwardly to compliments as an unconscious act of self-protection. Unfortunately, this unconscious self-protection often robs us of human connection. It keeps us from letting in the kind words and gratitude of others.
