Respect in the Workplace Objectives Improve workplace relations

Respect in the Workplace

Objectives • Improve workplace relations by showing respect • Examine how and why respect in the workplace is important • Focus on others’ interests • Change non-productive relationship behaviors • Focus on the future

• Ask anyone in the workforce what they most desire from their superiors and peers, and the answer is likely to be “treated with dignity and respect. ” • Everyone in the organization can, and should, show respect for others. • Showing respect for others in the workplace is easy and it goes a long way.

Mutual respect means that you exhibit respect for your colleagues and they reciprocate. Find ways to show that you truly value your colleagues contribution to your workplace. Let them know that you consider them (and their work) as important. What should be your response when a colleague doesn’t reciprocate, i. e. - show respect in return? Do we allow that to define how you act?

Types of Respect • Owed • Earned • Here’s how and why you should be demonstrating respect every day.

HOW Do I Demonstrate Respect in the Workplace?

• There first has to be a commitment. • Treat people how you’d like to be treated: with kindness, courtesy and politeness. • Encourage other coworkers to share their valuable ideas. • Actively listen to others. Never interrupt or put in your two cents before they’re finished. • Use other people’s ideas often to increase productivity and efficiency.

• Don’t insult people or talk behind their back. • Don’t nitpick, micromanage, criticize or demean others. • Be aware of your tone, your body language, your expression and your demeanor during all interactions. • Treat people the same no matter their race, religion, age, etc. All people you interact with should be treated equally.

• Include all necessary coworkers in meetings, lunches and after work activities. • Provide an equal opportunity for employees to participate in committees or improvement teams. • Always praise more than you criticize. • Encourage employees to give praise to others where needed.

• Manage your anger • Communicate in a polite manner • Encourage and help each other • Avoid judging your peers

• Lead by example • Swiftly shut down disrespectful behavior • Recognize respectful employees • Sensitivity training

• Smile. • Say “thank you. ” • Be considerate and discreet. Apologize. • Participate constructively. • Respond in a timely manner. • Be reliable. • Feedback is a gift.

Empathy • Empathy is distinct from sympathy. • Empathy is the ability to experience and relate to the thoughts, emotions, or experience of others. • Empathy is the ability to step into someone else’s shoes.

Communication • Choose your words carefully • Listen actively

Behave professionally at all times. Be careful with comments about people. Best Practice Tips Refrain from any physical contact or inappropriate nonverbal actions. Protect yourself and others. Refrain from offensive and inflammatory language. Remain well within appropriate topics of conversation Document and be proactive! Be careful about relationships with coworkers.

Diversity It is important to remember that everyone is different. Each person that you work with brings a different attribute to your workplace. While they might not be the type of person you are used to, try to focus on their positive characteristics

WHY Do I need to Demonstrate Respect in the Workplace?

• Respect Contributes to Job Satisfaction • Respect Can Increase Employee Engagement • Respect Can Help to Create a Fair Workplace • Respect Can Reduce Stress • Respect Improves Collaboration