It can catch you off guard when someone says they appreciate you — you might freeze, blush, or immediately try to downplay it. That reaction is normal; this article helps you respond in a way that’s simple, sincere, and keeps the connection intact when someone tells you they appreciate you.

Why This Moment Matters

Being told you’re appreciated is more than a compliment: it’s someone naming the value you bring. How you receive that message shapes the relationship — a warm acceptance deepens trust, while deflection can unintentionally close things down. In workplaces, families, or friendships, the way you reply communicates whether you can accept care as well as give it.

Short, Simple Things You Can Say

• Thank you — that really means a lot to me.
• I appreciate you noticing.
• That makes my day, thanks.
• I’m glad I could help.
• Hearing that means more than you know.
• You just made my week — thank you.

Longer Messages With More Warmth

• Thank you — I needed to hear that today. It’s really encouraging to know my efforts matter to you.
• I appreciate you saying that. Working with you/supporting you makes it worth it, and your words mean a lot.
• That’s very kind of you. I put a lot into [specific thing], so knowing it helped you is really rewarding.
• I’m touched you said that — thank you. It’s comforting to be seen and valued by someone I care about.
• Thank you for telling me. I don’t always notice the little wins, so your appreciation helps me keep going.

What to Avoid Saying

• “Oh, it was nothing” — this dismisses their expression and can leave them feeling unheard.
• Over-self-deprecating replies like “I’m not that good” — they downplay both the compliment and your contributions.
• Immediately turning it into a joke to deflect — this can make the other person feel awkward or shut down.
• Responding only with a reciprocating compliment if you don’t mean it — insincere reciprocation feels transactional.
• Explaining or qualifying (“Well, I did X, but…”) — explanations can undercut the simple act of acceptance.

Helpful Tips for Handling the Moment

• Pause for a beat and make eye contact — a brief, attentive response feels sincere.
• Personalize your reply when possible: mention what they noticed (“I’m glad the report helped in your meeting”).
• If you’re uncomfortable with compliments, acknowledge that honestly: “I’m not used to that, but thank you.”
• Consider following up with a short message later (a text or note) if the moment felt important.
• Match your tone to the relationship and setting — a warm, brief acceptance is fine at work; you can be more personal with close friends or family.

A Note About This Particular Situation

Context shapes the best response: a compliment from a boss, a close friend, or a casual acquaintance may call for different levels of warmth and detail. Also be mindful of power dynamics — accepting appreciation graciously in professional settings preserves respect, while in personal relationships you can afford to be more vulnerable. If you genuinely don’t feel appreciated back, it’s okay to notice that later and have a separate conversation rather than deflecting in the moment.

Let us know in the comments if this has helped or if you’ve got suggestions we can include

About the Author 

Helen Bach is a relationship expert and writer who helps people find the right words when it matters most. She studied English and English Literature at the University of Michigan, where she developed a passion for how language shapes love, conflict, and connection.

At whattosaywhen.net, Helen writes clear, down-to-earth advice on what to say in real-life situations—from first dates and tough conversations to breakups and makeups. Her goal is simple: to make talking about feelings less awkward and a lot more honest.