I’ve worked with leaders who offered me so much praise that it feels like being put on a pedestal. I start feeling annoyed when this happens.

While being offered praise can be affirming, too much praise can take away the opportunity to learn and grow from each other.

Praise is to “express warm approval or admiration of.“ (e.g. “we can’t praise Chris enough – he did a brilliant job.”)

While it’s nice to give and receive praise at times, it’s not overly helpful when it comes to improving.

Rather than praise, offer an acknowledgement. Acknowledgements are powerful in they help someone see that they’re having an impact.

Acknowledgements are specific to strength, skill, or event. Even in times of failure, an acknowledgement can help the person build from experience.

Praise them sometimes. Acknowledge them frequently. It’s what leaders do.

You’ve got this.