How To Give Praise

Entrepreneur magazine's February 2012 issue offered these great, timeless tips on how to give praise:

Praise followed by criticism is not praise.
Praise followed by praise is probably a little too much praise.
Ending an expression of praise with "...and stuff" nullifies the praise.

And,

Make it timely. The closer the recognition is to the behavior, the more likely the behavior will be repeated.
Be sincere. Be impromptu.
Remember, a handwritten note is worth more than a gift card.

Having trouble writing your handwritten note of praise? Try this template to get you started:

_______, I couldn't be more impressed with how you______. Not only did you____, but you_______. Beautiful. Thanks, ________

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Eric Jacobson On Management And Leadership

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