In a world of social media and large, open space work areas, compliments in passing aren't uncommon. But, are they true? Similarly, supervisors are taught to encourage the good things instead of just criticizing the areas needing improvement.
How can you tell if a word of encouragement or a compliment is true? How do you know that it is not just some obligatory gesture of kindness—and perhaps it is just the precursor than attempt to lure you into something!
Two things offer evidence that compliments and words of encouragement are true.
First off, does it come unexpected? Could the person who said it (typed it) have just as easily said nothing? The fact that they took the effort to stop you and say something (or go to the comments section and type something) is a good indicator that whatever they typed was something they believed.
Secondly, is it specific? A passing "nice job!" comment could just be an effort toward them looking thoughtful and not a genuine attempt to encourage you. Sure, it's great to be told you did something well, but the lack of specificity leaves such a compliment open to doubt. However, if they say, "Wow! How you handled the customer's complaint about the packaging was really great!" there's a good chance that they really believe that.
When someone pops up out of nowhere and offers you a compliment that is specific and relevant, there's a really good chance that it is true.
AND, if you want someone to feel encouraged… Let them know what you think (specifically) at a time that it is not expected.
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