Most of us know that flattery is a powerful tool.  We know that complimenting someone makes them feel good about themselves and more positively about the person paying the favorable comments, even if they think it might be insincere. Now, research shows that compliments can even improve memory, morale and job performance!

Japanese researchers who conducted a study found that when people were given a task to learn involving motor skills, praise for their performance afterwards resulted in their remembering the task better than participating groups who received no praise.

While this experiment looked at one very limited area – a learned physical task – it’s interesting that flattery has a side effect in improving recall totally independent of motivation factors. Educators, trainers, coaches, even bosses may be able to use compliments and praise to make their lessons more memorable and more readily implemented. And, at the same time, they could be viewed more positively by their students and may be increasing motivation, as well.

What can we, in property management, use every day from this research, this lesson?

What if our leasing team members closed their presentation with “You are making a smart and great decision”?

Or when the rent check is hand delivered “Thank you for paying your rent on time…we really appreciate you”?

Or when spending time with your employees “You are really picking this up fast” or “You are doing a great job on this task”?

And while training a group “Each of you are paying attention, taking notes and showing that you are sincerely interested.  I can see success in your future!”

I for one prefer sincere compliments…even if insincere ones are said to work.  And I am quick to pay compliments.  Just today I was in a Fed Ex office, waiting in line behind a very tall, athletic young man who was gracious, appreciative and polite to the clerk.  He was still out front as I was leaving.  As I passed by I said “May I say something to you? I am old enough to be your grandmother, so this is a compliment and not a ‘come-on. You are a very handsome young man with lovely manners, and a great ‘disc jockey’ voice.”  He beamed a smile and said “You just made my day…thank you for the compliment.”

Paying compliments, flattering people is an easy, no cost way to get better results, to cause someone to feel good about themselves, perhaps make them pass on a compliment to others after experiencing how good it feels.  This is such an easy thing to do and will brighten your day as well.  Develop a habit of saying nice things, praising when appropriate….even to a perfect stranger.  And most certainly do it for your team members.

By the way, you are looking good today!!!