How to compliment me

Published 21 Jul 2005

I got a lot of comments after my last post that I should consider some fucker mistaking me for a college freshman a compliment.

Um, no. In that one misguided sentence, that guy encapsulated the professional struggle I go through every day. I am female, blonde, and I look younger than I am, and it is very hard for me to be seen as a serious professional in this world. That comment was just a reminder of how far I have to go to achieve that status.

So I thought I’d help this guy, and anyone else who is trying to compliment a young professional woman, and list some acceptable ways to compliment me.

1. I really like what you did with the (insert name here) web site. I will proceed to tell you the ways in which it still sucks, but I will feel complimented that someone actually recognized my work.
2. I really enjoyed that last article you wrote. I will know you are probably lying, but I will feel all warm and fuzzy.
3. We are thinking about (insert web design strategy here), and we wanted to know what you thought about it. Ask for my professional opinion, and I will instantly like you.
4. You look great, have you lost weight? I am human after all.
5. Can I buy you a drink? The answer may be no, depending on the situation, but I will be flattered. (Unless you are Patty wanting to buy me appletinis, and then I will know you are trying to kill me.)
6. I love your shoes. The old standby— works every time.

Hopefully that clears things up. Notice the absence of references to age.

My next post will be about web stuff, I promise.

Filed under Miscellaneous, Women's Issues