How to Make Someone Feel Important

Co-authored by Sarah Schewitz, PsyD and Madeleine Criglow

Last Updated: November 5, 2024 References

When you value someone in your life, you want them to know that they're special. Luckily, there are several ways to do this, from kind gestures to direct words of encouragement. Read on for more ideas on how to make someone feel important.

1

Address them by name.

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This is a super easy way to make someone feel important. People like hearing the sound of their own name, and it makes them feel special to be addressed so specifically. When greeting someone, say their name instead of a simple 'hello." If you have a question, compliment, or even just a comment to share with them, preface or follow what you say with their name.^{[1]
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- Try something like, "Hey Sam! Nice to see you today" or "I really appreciated your input in the meeting today, Louis."

2

Compliment them.

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Flattering someone makes them feel valued. Tell them something you appreciate about them, like their expertise when it comes to cooking or their amazing singing abilities. Whatever it may be, tell them how much you like these qualities about them. It will make them feel special and unique, like their skills made an impact on you.^{[2]
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Sarah Schewitz, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist

Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.}^{[3]
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- Say something like, "You are such a talented chef. I've been craving that spaghetti you made for months."

3

Listen to what they have to say.

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A huge part of feeling important is being understood and heard. Focus on what this person has to say. Put your phone away and make eye contact with them while they speak. Practice active listening techniques, like restating what they've said in your own words, to fully understand them.^{[4]
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Sarah Schewitz, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist

Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.}^{[5]
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- Try nodding along as they speak and smiling to encourage them to keep talking.^{[6]
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4

Ask them questions.

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This shows them that you're truly interested in their life. Think of follow-up questions that you genuinely want to know the answer to. Ask them how their day was, or what they've been up to lately. Text them asking them if they've been having a good week.^{[7]
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- If they mention that they're applying to grad school programs, for example, ask them something like, "What kind of programs are you applying to?" or "Do you have a favorite program so far?"

5

Play up their strengths.

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Refer to their talents or knowledge to make them feel special. If you're at a music museum with your friend who's a musician, ask them questions about specific guitars or music history. It will make them feel great to know that their knowledge is valued, and you'll even get to learn a few new facts.^{[8]
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- Maybe you're remodeling your home and your friend dabbles in home improvement projects. Ask them for any advice they may have!

6

Let them know you're thinking of them.

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A simple text or comment can make a huge difference. Next time you catch yourself thinking about a fun time you had last summer, text them and let them know. Everyone likes to hear that someone has thought of them. It reminds them that they've made a positive impact on someone's life.^{[9]
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- Text them something like, "I just thought of that beach trip we took last year. That was so fun! I hope you're doing well."

7

Give them a gift or make them something.

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Receiving a gift can make someone feel extra special. You don't even have to get something super expensive or over-the-top. Buy their favorite chips and bring them over next time you see them. Pick up a fun mug you know they'll love when you're on vacation.^{[10]
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Sarah Schewitz, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist

Expert Interview. 11 March 2021.}
- Make them feel extra special by getting a gift that's specific to them. If your friend loves to draw, get them a pack of drawing pencils or a sketchbook.
- You can also make them a gift if you're crafty. If you're a great cook, make them a meal.^{[11]
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