As an employee, I have come to notice the power of respect in the workplace. A respectful work environment isn’t only healthy and positive, but also, facilitates one to work happily and confidently. Treating someone with respect can inculcate self-confidence in them and offer them encouragement to do their work. It’s pretty obvious that people who don’t feel respected are disheartened to even report to work or find friends. Employees who are not respected may not be committed to their job, for instance, in a survey of more than 20,000 employees, Harvard Business Review found that respect was the number one behaviour, above all others, that would lead to greater employee engagement and commitment. People who are respected are less stressed because they work comfortably without the worry of proving a point to be loved or impress others and can effortlessly accept themselves the way they’re regardless of their differences. Perhaps, there is less or no judgment as you can work with people in harmony, and connect with your co-workers in case of anything. Truthfully, it is hard to approach people who make you feel like you are not needed in their space. Sometimes the disrespect is even felt in the slightest of issues. For example, when colleagues don’t talk to you, it hurts especially when you’re new in the workplace and are not well conversant with how things work. This discourages many workers. However, if you desire to be respected, there is no formula. It is so simple, learn to respect others and humbleness should be key. No one has the authority to act bossy and above others just because they earn more money or are in better positions. Some people think just because they’re more knowledgeable or have unique skills, it empowers them to step on others; it’s unacceptable, mean, and insensitive. How to respect others It is quite obvious that greeting one another is reverent, and a habit to do expressly in the morning while meeting people. For Christ’s sake, how do you enter office, sit on your computer and start working without greeting the people next to you? It may seem simple but means a lot. Let’s have boundaries. Some people think just because you share lunch or hold some conversations outside work; it gives them the audacity to go beyond their limits. It’s necessary to give as much privacy to someone, and if they’re not interested in something, respect that. And also, some people have a tendency of offending others in the name of joking. It’s better to know if someone is comfortable with jokes, especially those that are too personal or undermining. Even when you are sure your viewpoint is right, listen and give a chance to others to speak first. It is rude to interrupt or speak over someone. It shows some kind of impoliteness and selfishness as one thinks what they have to say makes more sense than others. No one deserves to be undermined, or bullied. It is not right to judge or demean others, once you do so, you may never have a chance to discover their positive side. Even when someone makes a mistake, no one is perfect, learn to move past it. Avoid gossiping or being around people who gossip about others. Work gossip is common and some people spare some of their precious time to talk about others, whether the rumours are true or not, it’s necessary to walk away or not participate in such conversations. Offer assistance and show respect and kindness to others. Some people’s attitude just explains why it’s hard to approach them. It’s advisable to show compassion to others. And in case anyone wants your services on how to do a certain task, be willing to teach them. We all need help as no one knows it all. Control your temper so that you don’t say or do something you will regret. Even if you’re offended by a colleague, walk away until you’re comfortable approaching them to solve the matter. Ask for permission before picking anyone’s items, even if it’s just earphones, a pen, or any equipment; it’s kind to use after given consent. And in the same spirit, borrowed items should be returned after use.
