Most of my complements come from people who I am already engaged with, or who are engaged with my social group. rarey does anyone grab my arm as I pass by and complement me. Also, in certain areas/situations it is awkward to interrupt someone in that fashion. If you are having a night out on the otherhand, socializing with strangers is normal.
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I also feel like some people tend to exaggerate quite a bit for one motive or another... "two girls jumped on my lap and different people complemented [whatever] cologne tonight" just seems highly unlikely.