Say the Right Thing: How to Compliment Your Date with Confidence

In a world where everyone seems worried about what to say for fear of upsetting or offending someone, there is one art of dating that is dying out. 

Compliments. One of the simplest ways to make your date feel seen, valued, and at ease. 

But for many people, giving compliments can feel awkward: "What if it sounds too cheesy?" "What if they take it the wrong way?"

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There is good news though! Confident and genuine compliments can be achieved without worrying if your comment has been misinterpreted. 

While it’s perfectly fine to compliment someone’s looks, relying solely on this can be seen as shallow and you are encouraged to go a little deeper. I urge you to pay attention to your date and the stories and anecdotes they share.

You don’t need to be a poet, a comedian or a wild charmer, however below are some top tips that are sure to help you compliment your date! 

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Listen to your date

If they share their passion for their job or have a hobby they adore and it lights them up, tell them! 

“Your smile gets bigger when you talk about your love of dancing”

“I love how passionate you are about your job, you light up when you talk about it!”

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Ditch the generic "You look nice"

The compliment "you look nice" or "you have pretty eyes" can be soooo overdone nowadays. Mix it up and try to compliment specifically and intentionally. When you are specific, it is seen as sincere. 

“That colour looks amazing on you, it really brings out your eyes.”

“You are so polite to the shop staff, it’s really wonderful to see”

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Don’t mention insecurities

Try hard to avoid anything that could be interpreted as backhanded or invasive when you are on a date. The last thing you would want to do when you are trying to compliment someone is to accidentally offend them! Even if the intention is good, it can land wrong. 

Avoid the “You look better than in your photos!” or “ I don’t usually like people with tattoos”

By following these very simple steps, you are sure to have a successful date full of fun and laughter, without the ‘Did I say the wrong thing’ stress! 

And remember, try not to overcomplicate it. Compliments don’t have to be overthought, they just need to be honest and sincere. And in return, if you are paid a compliment, make sure you are polite in response. A please and thank you in this life goes a long way! 

Compliment with confidence, be gracious on acknowledgement of one and enjoy the process of dating!