I have actually done this recently with great results. I said something along the lines of how lucky I am to have her and how great of a supervisor I think she is (I sounded sincere and NOT kiss-assy). She looked VERY happy with the compliment and seems to be putting even more effort than usual into my supervison. ;)

Yes, I have tried to do this, and it sometimes feels odd to know how to express it, but I think it is important to let a supervisor know if you appreciate their efforts. I know when I worked and supervised people that if once in a blue moon someone said, "I have really learned a lot from your supeversion," or something along those lines, it really felt good. Its nice to get appreciation from someone, and I am sure supervisors like to be appreciated and know that the work that they are doing is helpful!

I am fortunate because I really do think I have the gold standard in supervisors. Even people who meet my supervisor casually say at a conference always tell me what a good impression he makes and how fortunate I am to have this person as a supervisor. That would sound over the top to say to someone's face, but I do think letting my supervisor know that he is much appreciated is important from time to time.

Yes, it can feel awkaward so the moment has to be right. Mine was after completing a good talk. I thought along the lines of how good it feels when supervisor compliments my work - so it would probably make her happy if I did the same.

Well, I'm scratching my head to think what I would actually say - and then of course - I'd have to actually find my supervisor..

Ah-Oh

Is this necessary?

Is what necesseary?

Yeah, I've complimented and thanked my supervisor quite often - and he deserved it. He works hard, challenges me in the right places and has been a great support. Last year, after a hard 6 months... including conference and paper writing and prep for upgrade - I gave him a card just to say thanks for all the positive things he'd done over the year. He liked the card and seemed pleased to know that he was appreciated. I guess it depends on your supervisor and how you get on - but if they're good and work hard with you - then, why not say thanks once in a while? It's better than taking folk for granted, I guess.