Meeting new people is never easy, but with a few compliments to give people you meet for the first time, it can be a breeze to break the ice. Keep in mind that you always want to be genuine when complimenting others. Don’t just say something if you don’t mean it, but if you find something you could compliment someone on that you genuinely admire about them, then tell them! It can be as simple as the type of shoes they have on, to the way they’re wearing their hair. Either way, compliments break the ice and create an easier avenue for talking to someone. Some of these are better for women than men, and a couple are even useful for job interviews, but each one can be condition specific, so pick the most appropriate one.
1. I LOVE YOUR OUTFIT
Ladies, one of the best compliments to give people you meet for the first time is a sense of appreciation for their outfit. Who doesn’t love to be complimented on what they’re wearing? If this is a man, you may want to keep it simple and say something like, “Nice shirt”, but if it is a woman, feel free to gush over her blouse, dress, gym tank, etc. This will break down barriers, and make her feel good too. If you’re lucky, she might even tell you where she got it!
2. YOU HAVE A GREAT SMILE
Does someone you meet have pretty pearly whites, or a welcoming smile? Tell them so! A smile is the prettiest thing any of us will wear, and when someone appreciates it, it’s even better.
3. YOUR ACCENT IS NICE
If you meet someone out of town, or who is from a different culture, state, area, etc. and you like their accent, let them know. This is one compliment that is always nice to receive. As a southerner, trust me, I know.
4. I’VE HEARD SO MANY GREAT THINGS ABOUT YOU
If you’re not sure what to say about someone you meet, or are finding it hard to start a conversation, just keep it simple with this baseline compliment. Telling someone you’ve heard nice things about them through a friend, family member or co-worker is a great way to break the ice. If you haven’t heard of them at all, then definitely don’t say this and instead, keep say something like, “I’ve been looking forward to meeting you.”
5. YOU HAVE GREAT STYLE
If you like the way someone dresses and accessorizes, a great way to say this is simply, “I love your style.” It makes a simple, yet very welcomed compliment anyone will receive well.
6. YOU’RE SO POLITE
Another simple compliment to give someone is just to tell them how nice they are. It doesn’t have to be something on the exterior your compliment them with. Perhaps they have great manners, or are just friendly. Tell them so!
