We had a new guy starting at work on Wednesday. I only met him today due to not being at the office for the past few days. After introducing myself he replied: "oh, you are THAT guy, I have heard of you".
I don't know what he had heard, and from where. But I immediately replied "not everything they tell about me is true". Half joking. I'm sure whatever it has been was positive. But me being a modest Finn I always assume not all of that positivity is necessarily earned.
Never the less, it's always nice to have some recognition. Makes you feel like I've done something right. It also tells a lot about our work atmosphere: we don't shy away from praises. At least on the giving end.
I have also encountered this same phenomenon in other circles I'm part of. I have to admit it feels nice. It truly makes you feel welcome and show people are interested in me. And despite all my modesty, maybe I have actually done something right to earn such reputation.
Of course it would be nice to hear those compliments straight to my face instead of people talking good about me behind my back.