How to What to Say when Your Boss Appreciates You

You're going about your workday when your boss stops you to say how much they appreciate your work. They give nothing but praise—what do you say? They're noticing all your hard work, and there's no shame in accepting the compliment, especially if you toss in a "thank you." Keep reading because we’ve put together a list of responses, so you know what to say or type when your boss appreciates you.

This article is based on an interview with our executive, strategic, and personal coach, Lauren Krasny, founder of Reignite Coaching.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]“Thank you. I’m glad to hear that!”

1. Be genuine when accepting a compliment from your boss. The best way you can reply to their appreciation is by being authentically you. Say “thank you” and express just how much their praise means to you in your own way.^[1]
   
   • “Thank you! I’m happy to hear you feel that way.”
   • “That means a lot coming from you. Thank you.”
   • “Thanks for taking the time to let me know.”

[Edit]“Thank you for saying that.”

1. Keep your response concise to be professional. You don’t need to be overly expressive if you don’t want to be. A simple but authentic “thanks” shows appreciation while staying formal.^[2]
   
   • “I really appreciate you saying that.”
   • “Thank you. That’s very kind of you to say.”
   • “Thank you so much for noticing.”

[Edit]“Thank you for providing me with the opportunity.”

1. Tell your boss what you’re thankful for. Make sure your “thank you” is authentic and genuine to the situation. You can never go wrong by starting with a “Thank you for….”
   
   • “Thank you for the feedback.”
   • “Thank you for such kind words.”

[Edit]“I couldn’t have done it without such an incredible team.”

1. Demonstrate leadership by acknowledging everyone involved. If your boss praises you for a job well done on a team project, emphasize the importance of teamwork. This shows you’re a team player and value the company’s collaborative work.^[3]
   
   • “I couldn’t have finished without your help.”
   • “We all did a fantastic job!”

[Edit]“You’re welcome! I’m happy to help.”

1. A warm, encouraging reply shows reliability. If your boss shares their appreciation for a project or task you’ve worked on, accept the praise and acknowledge that you’re ready to help whenever and wherever. This demonstrates a reliable nature that your boss will appreciate.^[4]
   
   • “It was my pleasure. I’m always ready to help.”
   • “Of course! It’s been an honor being able to work on this project.”
   • “I’m happy to do my part.”

[Edit]“Thank you for creating a welcoming environment.”

1. Tell your boss how much you value the work environment. Feeling comfortable and accepted at work is no small thing, so share with your boss that what they’ve cultivated has helped you shine.
   
   • “It’s all because of the wonderful work environment you’ve created.”
   • “I’ve been able to do so because of the creative environment you’ve formed.”

[Edit]“It’s an honor to do what I love for a company I love.”

1. Note your skills in a humbling way. Accept your boss’s praise by reiterating a skill set while focusing on your value as an employee. This will show your boss that you’re aware of your strengths and dedicated to strengthening the company.
   
   • “I couldn’t have asked for a better team to work with.”
   • “I’m grateful to be able to use my skills in a helpful way.”

[Edit]“Thank you for all the encouragement!”

1. Thank your boss for their support and guidance. Perhaps you couldn’t have gotten to the point in your career without them, or their support drives the work ethic they praise. Don’t be afraid to form your “thank you” as a compliment to them—they’ve helped you succeed after all!^[5]
   
   • “Thank you for the help and support.”
   • “Your support means a lot.”
   • “Thanks for the positive feedback, it means a lot to me.”

[Edit]“I’m grateful to have been given the opportunity.”

1. Express gratitude for the new position you’re thriving in. If your boss says they appreciate what you’re doing in your new role, thank them for putting you there. This is an excellent way to show your continued appreciation while accepting their compliment.^[6]
   
   • “Thank you for taking a chance on me. I love my new position.”
   • “I am thankful that you’ve recognized my hard work and given me this opportunity.”

[Edit]“You’re so patient, and I cannot thank you enough.”

1. Show appreciation for your boss in return. Your boss has most likely supported and guided you on your journey to success, and even if they haven’t, a compliment won’t hurt! They’ve taken the time to praise you, so return the compliment with a smile and genuine remark about them.
   
   • “Working with you is a treat!”
   • “Couldn’t have asked for a better boss!”

[Edit]“I put a lot of work into this, so thank you.”

1. Be confident when replying to your boss's compliment.^[7] If a task or project took a lot of work, don’t be afraid to express that while saying “thank you.” This will remind them that you can do hard things and remain humble.
   
   • “A lot of effort went into it, so I appreciate the praise.”
   • “It did take some work, so I greatly appreciate the compliment.”

[Edit]References

1. ↑ [v161315_b01]. 27 March 2020.
2. ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-appreciation/
3. ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/positive-leadership/
4. ↑ [v161315_b01]. 27 March 2020.
5. ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-messages-letters-lists/
6. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/working-with-difficult-people/202303/are-you-a-positive-leader-at-work
7. ↑ [v161315_b01]. 27 March 2020.