Have you doled out any compliments today?

In most cases, flattery really CAN get you somewhere...

The art of the compliment is a powerful social skill – and can generate some significant positive energy if you do it right. Psychology Today’s Hara Estroff Marano explains: You don’t need to be an expert – you just need to be genuine. The more specific the compliment is, the better. "The way you handled that question at the meeting was brilliant. You really refocused the discussion onto our plans." 

Compliments on appearance are fine. They can make people feel good and put them at ease. Just be sure there’s not something more important going on. That compliment might go a lot farther.

If you’re the recipient of a compliment – try not to take that for granted. Women in particular often discount a compliment by downplaying or denying it. That just sucks the energy away from someone else’s good intentions. Take advantage of that positive moment. Smile and say thank you and accept the compliment, for both your sakes.