Here’s a lovely way—just by tweaking a few common phrases– to make friends, colleagues and even strangers have a warmer reaction to you.  I call it: “The YOU for THAT Substitution.”  Here’s how it works:

When complimenting something someone said or did, substitute the word YOU for THAT. Here are a few examples:

Instead of saying “That’s a good question,” say  “YOU have asked a good question.”

Instead of, “That’s a great idea,” say “YOU have a great idea.”

Instead of “That’s an excellent suggestion,” try “YOU have made an excellent suggestion.”

Instead of, “That’s a fabulous blouse,” substitute “YOU look fabulous in that blouse.”

After someone tells a joke, instead of “That is so funny,” you can even say “YOU are so funny” (just make sure they understand it’s a compliment!)

Why is that three letter little word, “you” so powerful? Well, I’m sure you’ve heard that hearing one’s own name is the sweetest sound in the English language. Hearing YOU, in a positive context, comes in second.

And if you want a double whammie, use both. Include his or her name before the word “YOU.” 

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