Respect at the Workplace

Respect at the workplace is something that is perceived and experienced rather than something that can be clearly explained in words. This includes the way people in an organisation behave with each other showing politeness and mutual respect, discuss official as well as personal issues at the workplace, cooperate with each other, and follow office policies in spirit and not just letter. The way they resolve workplace issues makes people feel how respectful a workplace is and makes them feel good to be there.

Respecting others’ self-respect is integral to a respectful workplace. Each employee in an organisation has a task to accomplish and each may have a different view of how things are done. In case of conflict in approaches to doing things, the right way is not to condemn the employees but talking to them and finding reasonable solutions. If that doesn’t work, then the next best course is to find a different work space for them.

A proper workplace culture helps promote respect in organisations. The following guidelines can be useful in this regard.

Realise that people come with different ideas and mindsets and accept them

Clearly define the roles of individuals, complete with their rights, duties and boundaries of their authority

Make them realise they are accountable for all their deeds

Promote values and behaviour that are generally acceptable without appearing to be imposing something on them

Build office atmosphere in such a way that employees discuss differences and acknowledge alternative views

Communicate all important things to staff formally by holding meetings and sending emails

To know whether you are working in a respectful workplace, check the indicators shown below. If these indicators are applicable, congratulations, you live in a respectful workplace. If these indicators are not applicable, you have now in your hands the know-how to turn your workplace into a respectful workplace.

Credit is given to employees when good work is accomplished.

Employees assume responsibility for their behaviour rather than making excuses or blaming others.

Employees are committed to keeping each other informed and trust each other to pass along information appropriately.

Employees collaborate on important issues asking each other’s opinions and expertise.

Employees talk in terms of ‘we’ instead of creating ‘us and them’ distinctions.

Employees focus on the main issue or mission and don’t get distracted by differences.

Employees respect organisational structures and roles and don’t use them as weapons.

Employees value each other’s background and experience rather than discrediting each other’s competence.

Employees openly discuss concerns, criticisms, and conflicts in a respectful manner.

Employees speak positively about their work, the organisation, and the future rather than expressing cynicism.