Thank You for the Kind Words: Polite Responses with Alternatives
In business and everyday communication, the phrase “thank you for the kind words” is a polite and safe choice. But here’s the thing — it can start to feel overused or even robotic, especially in emails or LinkedIn replies. If you’re aiming to sound more authentic or match a specific tone, it’s helpful to have a few alternatives in your back pocket.
In this article, we’ll break down what the phrase actually means, when it’s appropriate to use, and give you 20 professional alternatives. We’ll also cover some simple, polite responses to this phrase when someone sends it your way.
What Does “Thank You for the Kind Words” Mean?
When someone says “thank you for the kind words,” they’re showing appreciation. Usually, it follows a compliment, praise, or a thoughtful comment. It’s a way to acknowledge the other person’s effort to be kind.
It’s professional, safe, and neutral. But that’s also what makes it feel a bit generic.
Let’s make it clearer:
- Someone congratulates you on a job well done.
- You reply: “Thank you for the kind words.”
It’s polite. It works. But sometimes you want to sound more engaging or heartfelt, especially if you’re building relationships in business or networking.
When and Where to Use “Thank You for the Kind Words”
This phrase fits well in many professional settings:
- Email replies to compliments
- LinkedIn or other professional social media comments
- Slack or team chat praise
- Performance reviews
- Client feedback
Still, depending on who you’re talking to, you might want to adjust your tone. Formal email? Keep it polished. Quick Slack message? Maybe go more casual. Either way, mixing up your responses keeps your communication fresh and thoughtful.
20 Professional Alternatives to “Thank You for the Kind Words”
Here’s a list of refined and professional alternatives. Each one comes with a short breakdown to help you use them effectively.
1. I Appreciate Your Feedback
Meaning: You value the comment shared.
Explanation: Good for formal replies, especially to feedback or reviews.
Example: “I appreciate your feedback on my presentation.”
Best Use: Performance reviews, email replies.
2. I’m Grateful for Your Support
Meaning: Shows emotional gratitude.
Explanation: Warm, yet professional. Great for long-term work relationships.
Example: “I’m grateful for your support throughout the project.”
Best Use: Team collaborations.
3. It Means a Lot Coming From You
Meaning: A compliment on the compliment.
Explanation: Adds personal touch by acknowledging the sender.
Example: “It means a lot coming from you — thank you.”
Best Use: Responses to compliments from mentors or leaders.
4. Thank You — That Was Very Thoughtful
Meaning: Appreciates the intention behind the message.
Explanation: Slightly more emotional than standard replies.
Example: “Thank you — that was very thoughtful of you.”
Best Use: Cards, email, or direct messages.
5. I’m Honored by Your Words
Meaning: Expresses deep appreciation.
Explanation: Strong but elegant, best used sparingly.
Example: “I’m honored by your words. Thank you.”
Best Use: Awards, public praise.
6. That Truly Made My Day
Meaning: Light and friendly.
Explanation: Shows appreciation with a cheerful tone.
Example: “That truly made my day. Thank you!”
Best Use: Social media replies.
7. I Appreciate You Saying That
Meaning: Values the speaker.
Explanation: Sounds natural and sincere.
Example: “I appreciate you saying that — it means a lot.”
Best Use: Informal or team settings.
8. Thanks for Noticing
Meaning: Acknowledges recognition.
Explanation: Best for specific praise or effort.
Example: “Thanks for noticing all the hard work!”
Best Use: Peer-to-peer communication.
9. That Was Very Kind of You
Meaning: Thanks for a kind gesture.
Explanation: Soft, warm, and friendly.
Example: “That was very kind of you to say.”
Best Use: Everyday professional talk.
10. Much Appreciated
Meaning: Simple thank-you.
Explanation: Casual but polite.
Example: “Much appreciated, thanks again.”
Best Use: Quick messages or chat.
11. I’m Flattered
Meaning: You’re touched by the praise.
Explanation: Shows humility without rejecting the compliment.
Example: “I’m flattered — thank you!”
Best Use: Praise on personal qualities.
12. That Means a Lot
Meaning: Adds emotional weight.
Explanation: Short, sweet, and meaningful.
Example: “That means a lot — I really appreciate it.”
Best Use: Emails or comments.
13. I’m Humbled by Your Words
Meaning: Grateful and modest.
Explanation: Used for big moments or formal praise.
Example: “I’m humbled by your words. Thank you.”
Best Use: Leadership praise, awards.
14. I’m Glad My Work Resonated with You
Meaning: Acknowledges connection.
Explanation: Thoughtful and audience-aware.
Example: “I’m glad my work resonated with you.”
Best Use: Creative or client work.
15. It Was a Pleasure Working With You
Meaning: Closing a thank-you with a compliment back.
Explanation: Balanced and professional.
Example: “Thank you — it was a pleasure working with you.”
Best Use: Project completions.
16. I Value Your Encouragement
Meaning: Thanks for support.
Explanation: Formal and respectful.
Example: “I truly value your encouragement.”
Best Use: Career mentoring, team leads.
17. Your Words Are Truly Encouraging
Meaning: Boosts morale.
Explanation: Good when you feel uplifted.
Example: “Your words are truly encouraging. Thanks so much.”
Best Use: Team chat, manager feedback.
18. I’m Thankful for Your Kindness
Meaning: Broad but warm.
Explanation: Good for both verbal and written thanks.
Example: “I’m thankful for your kindness and support.”
Best Use: Thoughtful gestures.
19. Thank You for Reaching Out
Meaning: Acknowledges effort.
Explanation: Good for new connections.
Example: “Thank you for reaching out — I appreciate your message.”
Best Use: Networking, LinkedIn messages.
20. I Really Appreciate the Kind Words
Meaning: Slight twist on the original.
Explanation: More natural tone than the exact phrase.
Example: “I really appreciate the kind words — thank you.”
Best Use: Safe, polished alternative.
Simple and Polite Responses to “Thank You for the Kind Words”
Sometimes, you’re the one receiving this phrase. How do you respond? Here are a few simple and friendly ways to keep the conversation going.
- “You’re very welcome.”
- “I’m glad I could share it.”
- “It was well deserved.”
- “You earned every word.”
- “Anytime — happy to support.”
- “That’s what teammates are for.”
- “Just being honest!”
Keep it warm and brief. That’s usually enough.
Conclusion
“Thank you for the kind words” is a solid phrase. But relying on it too much can make your messages feel stale. By mixing in alternatives, you can sound more genuine, connect more deeply, and match the tone of each conversation.
Whether you’re replying to feedback, closing a project, or chatting on LinkedIn — how you say “thanks” matters. Keep it simple. Keep it sincere. And don’t be afraid to switch it up when it feels right.
