The benefits of a respectful workplace
“Respect is a two-way street, if you want to get it, you’ve got to give it.” R.G. Risch
One theme that has come out of recent conversations with clients and prospective clients is respect. Now I’m sure we all know what it means – consideration, compassion, politeness, kindness, help and acceptance towards others, even if you don’t agree with them and/or you are vastly different and have opposing opinions and views.
Respect is important because it sits at the core of most of our interactions - friendship, love, and even basic effective communication must all start with respect. Respect at work is a vital part of building trust and establishing a healthy working environment. Mutual respect in the workplace enables employees and managers to know they are valued for their achievements, abilities and qualities.
Actions not words
However, respect cannot simply be demanded from others - it has to be earned through actions. You need to prove you are worth their time, put yourself in other people's shoes and think about how they feel. Essentially, treat others the same way you'd want to be treated.
But did you know that a respectful workplace can reduce stress, as well as maximise productivity and collaboration? Plus, it increases employee satisfaction, loyalty, engagement and motivation, leading to a decrease in employee turnover and meaning you can often save time and money too. So, what are you doing to create a positive work culture where everyone is treated respectfully?
Behavioural shifts
I’m not sure whether the pandemic and the resulting changes in our working practices, such as more remote/hybrid working, is responsible for a shift in behaviours. But in recent years there has been an increase in inappropriate behaviours experienced by both managers and employees. These include:
Interrupting someone before they have finished speaking
Making rude, snide or belittling comments
Gossiping/spreading rumours
Taking control of a situation or project by means of intimidation/bullying
Sighing or making facial gestures while someone is speaking
Ignoring others’ opinions or being openly rude/disrespectful of their input
Taking credit for other people’s work
Displaying biased attitudes or beliefs
Being disruptive
Shouting, raising your voice or displaying bouts of anger
With employees and managers increasingly seeking value and purpose in their jobs, it’s important to clamp down on disrespectful behaviours. Left unchecked, disrespect can have a domino effect with other employees causing serious morale problems.
Keep in mind that good behaviour starts with management and it’s not a quick fix. You will need patience and a positive attitude. Here are some pointers for how you can address a lack of respect with an employee:
Meet in private, listen and seek to understand what is contributing to their behaviour.
Keep calm, ensure open channels of communication and perhaps even acknowledge that you may have had a part to play.
Highlight the benefits of respect.
Help them to see how their behaviour impacts the team.
Work with them to challenge their attitudes, beliefs and become open to change.
Document expectations/create an action plan.
Follow up after an agreed period of time and ensure compliance with appropriate and fair processes and procedures.
How I can help
If you’d like some help tackling disrespect in the workplace, please get in touch. By addressing inappropriate behaviours, you can build a happier, more engaged and effective team who work harmoniously together to achieve business growth and success.