Compliments

Why do we start a question with a compliment?

I attended a talk this afternoon and noticed that a few of the people asking questions in the Q&A session started with a compliment. I do believe they were genuine, and therefore nice, gestures, but am curious as to how does one reacts to such comments.

I'm not good at receiving compliments so am biased towards them. If my speech is good, don't flatter me. Simply ask your question as the real compliment is in the quality of the debate or answer the question brings forth (remember, there are no stupid questions, expect of the unasked one.)

Compliments are good, they deserve their place in a society but they would be better if separated from the question. A speaker needs feedback and the true compliment is in you asking a question : )