Some folks are stingy with compliments, while others are lavish.  

The better path is moderation.  Offer too few, you appear ungenerous   Offer too many, you may look insincere.  

If you always say "yes," you cheapen its meaning.  If you constantly give compliments, you diminish  their power.  So compliment selectively and sincerely.

Try these ways:

Be specific instead of general:  "Your column's lede was so clever it grabbed my interest immediately" instead of "I really liked your column today."

Describe how the person affected you:  "When you phoned me with support, you lifted my spirits" works better than "I appreciated your phone call."

For those persons who deflect compliments, add a tag question , such as "Your new blouse is really stunning, Sally.  Where did you find it?" (Now she can't respond with "Oh, this old thing." because she's busy answering your question.)

When your compliment language is fresh and specific instead of ho-hum routine, you'll convey your meaning more powerfully.   

Until next week,

Loren