Have you ever stopped to think about the true impact of your words and actions at work? Have you also ever considered the actual implications to business of workplace respect? It’s a topic that you might not talk about in your business growth meetings, but you should be making it a fundamental conversation within your business.
But why does this matter, you ask? It’s simple. In a world where business success is often measured in numbers and achievements, the subtler aspects like workplace interactions can easily be overshadowed. Yet, it’s these very interactions, rooted in respect or the lack thereof, that lay the foundation for a company’s culture, work ethic, hiring power, retention power and, ultimately, its success.
Workplace Respect and Its Implications
The importance of respect in the workplace goes beyond mere politeness. It’s about creating an environment where every individual feels valued, heard, and appreciated. This nurturing atmosphere isn’t just good for morale; it directly impacts productivity and innovation. When people feel respected, they’re more likely to contribute their best work, collaborate effectively, and drive the business forward.
I remember a moment from my early career days when a senior colleague’s offhand remark made me feel insignificant. I came up with what I thought was an innovative idea that the business hasn’t thought about before, only for it to be shut down with the offhand comment and chuckle, “We’ve seen that before, and it wasn’t impressive then either.” It was a small incident, but it left a lasting impression. A comment that felt like a deflating balloon to a new employee in a new job, hoping to make an impression. The words, perhaps forgettable to him by lunch, echoed in my mind for months. I’m not one to hold grudges, but trust me I gave him a few cold shoulders during my time there.
In hindsight, I actually learnt a lot from that experience, which taught me of the impact that lies in every interaction. It wasn’t merely about the sting of feeling insignificant; it was about understanding that every word we utter, every acknowledgment we give or withhold, carries power. It’s not just about avoiding negativity; it’s about actively fostering positivity and respect.
These days, I make a conscious effort to be mindful of my actions and speech. It’s not enough to evade being the bearer of negativity; one must strive to be a cultivator of positivity. Every ‘good morning’, every ‘well done’, every moment of genuine listening can uplift someone, contribute to a culture of respect and encourage a collective aspiration towards excellence.
The Cost of Incivility
Conversely, incivility in the workplace — those instances of disrespect, rudeness, or disregard — can have massively negative consequences. Studies from organisations like the CIPD highlight the tangible impact of workplace incivility:
Higher levels of anxiety and depression
Reduced self-esteem
Reduced performance
Increased absenteeism
Decreased employee engagement
Increased turnover
Damage to customer relationships
It’s crazy how seemingly minor acts of disrespect can escalate, affecting not just individuals but the entire organisational fabric.
How to Make Everyone Feel Valued at Work
So, how do we cultivate a culture of respect? It starts with us (you)— with our everyday actions and words. From giving full attention in conversations to acknowledging others’ contributions, these gestures might seem small but are incredibly powerful in building a respectful work environment. It’s about consistent effort and conscious choice.
Respect in the workplace tips:
Active Listening: Make eye contact, avoid interruptions, and engage genuinely with colleagues’ ideas.
Acknowledgement: Publicly and privately recognise individual contributions and efforts.
Inclusivity: Encourage diverse perspectives and ensure all team members have the opportunity to contribute.
Conflict Resolution: Handle disagreements constructively and keep discussions private.
Constructive Feedback: Offer feedback empathetically and focus on solutions rather than problems.
Lead by Example: Demonstrate respect in your own conduct and set the tone for others to follow.
Transparency: Communicate openly to build trust and mutual respect among team members.
Establish Clear Anti-Bullying Policies: Develop and enforce policies that clearly define unacceptable behaviours and the consequences of such actions.
Conduct Regular Check-Ins: Have managers or team leaders hold regular one-on-one meetings with employees to understand their challenges and aspirations, showing that their well-being is a priority.
Conclusion: Workplace Respect
In wrapping up, I’ve come to see that respect in the workplace is not just a moral obligation; it’s a business imperative.
It’s about creating a place where people can flourish, where ideas can bloom, and where business can thrive.
As leaders, colleagues, or even as newcomers, let’s champion respect — the under-appreciated cornerstone of business success.
Footnotes
Impact of Respect on Workplace Morale: CIPD. (n.d.). Evidence and research on bullying and incivility at work. [online] Available at: CIPD [17th Jan 2024]. This reference supports the discussion on how respect in the workplace influences employee morale and productivity.
Consequences of Workplace Incivility: Pearson, C., & Porath, C. (2013). The price of incivility. Harvard Business Review. Available at: HBR [17th Jan 2024]. This source provides insights into the negative impact of incivility in the workplace, including its effect on employee engagement and turnover.
Perception of Incivility: Psychology Today. (2022). Is incivility common in your workplace?. [online] Available at: Psychology Today [17th Jan 2024]. This article discusses the subjective nature of incivility and how it varies among individuals, contributing to the journal’s exploration of respect and perception in the workplace.
→ ‘A Marketers Mindset’ Newsletter: Subscribe to my newsletter insights on brand building, marketing, and productivity.
→ Marketing Advice: Gain 1:1 actionable marketing consulting tailored to your brand’s unique challenges.
Behind The Words
Hey! I’m Jack Willoughby and i’ve been helping brands grow from their first steps to making some real noise in the market, and ultimately helping to drive millions in revenue. I’ve worn different hats, from being the go-to marketing guy in-house to branching out on my own as a consultant. I also own a branding agency for health & fitness businesses.
Outside of that, I’m pouring my experiences into my weekly newsletter called ‘A Marketer’s Mindset’ 👈 Click for weekly tips on brand building, marketing, and productivity.