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How to Earn Respect at the Office

Written by: Todd Linaman

Article Overview: Many struggles at work can be attributed to one major symptom: a lack of respect from your co-workers, subordinates or supervisors. But, if you feel there is a lack of respect, how do you go about regaining or earning that trust from those in your workplace? Do you go around demanding that others respect you because of your title or position?

How to Earn Respect at the Office

Many struggles at work can be attributed to one major symptom: a lack of respect from your co-workers, subordinates or supervisors. But, if you feel there is a lack of respect, how do you go about regaining or earning that trust from those in your workplace? Do you go around demanding that others respect you because of your title or position?

I suggest there are better alternatives, grounded in solid business and relationship principles. Read the following strategies to help you develop and earn the respect that will help you and your company achieve more success.

1. Consistently complete projects on time

Getting your work done on time, or even ahead of schedule, demonstrates the value and worth you place on the project as well as the people you work with. It will go miles toward developing that respect you so desire.

2. Refrain from complaining or criticizing

Rather than point out faults or problems, offer solutions when making legitimate complaints, and make sure to communicate them to the appropriate person. This way you will show that you aren’t just being critical. Instead you’ll display the leadership you have by proactively recommending solution-based strategies.

3. Follow through on your commitments

A lack of follow through communicates irresponsibility and carelessness and can seriously undermine trust and confidence. However if you develop a reputation for completing projects or assignments on time, you’ll gain favor as someone who can execute and finish the job when needed. In addition, your work ethic will reflect well.

4. Speak up in meetings, but don’t dominate the discussion

Most workers have been in meetings where a select few dominate and don’t share the forum. By the end, everyone else has phased out, or lost interest because they weren’t able to participate or become fully involved. Rather than try to become a talking head in meetings, choose well thought out comments, ideas and opinions to share in meetings. This will let people know that you are engaged in the process and confident about your contribution to the team, while not making you look pushy or overbearing.

5. Know your stuff

Be prepared and always do your homework ahead of time. Anticipate questions and be ready with answers. Everyone will appreciate your efforts.

6. Be willing to engage in difficult conversations

You're not alone - most people fear and avoid confrontation. When an interpersonal or performance problem exists, don't ignore it. Although challenging, these conversations often result in stronger relationships, higher quality work and greater respect and admiration from others.

7. Communicate with confidence

Although important, remember that the words you use only make up a relatively small percentage of the messages you send to others. Make sure that your body language, facial expressions, tone of voice and vocal reflections are all sending a consistent and congruent message of confidence.

8. Stay off the grapevine

People are often quick to listen to a gossip, but slow to trust or respect them.

9. Take time to genuinely connect with people

To really connect with another person you need to consistently demonstrate sincere interest in them as well as a willingness to be transparent. It's easier to respect a person who doesn't always seem to be on guard; someone not afraid to show that they're human.

10. Treat people the way you want to be treated

Don't ever expect something from someone that you are not willing to give yourself. People generally reciprocate what they have received - good and bad.

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Article Tags: carelessness, co workers, commitments, confidence, faults, irresponsibility, job, lack of respect, leadership, legitimate complaints, refrain from, relationship, reputation, subordinates, work ethic



Related Forum Posts
Respect?!? - Hi there, A successful business depends on ongoing series of transactions. This inlvolves people. To what extend is respect important? When one thinks of himself alone, like me, me and me, how can respect become real? How many types of respect can we come up with? I think of a few: Respect of disagreement can be one. Then there is Respect of the Customer. Respect of position. Respect of 'Older Person'. By the same token, Respect of the 'Younger ones'. etc..... Has anybody got any other ideas on this subject. Kindest Regards Beat "Unlock People's Potentials!"
Lisa Shepherd Story - Great story! I love the Earn - Learn - Equity - it's very relavent for new entrepreneurs.
Re: Is being too connected pushing your business forward or back - Being too connected can push you back. A few weeks ago my wife gave me a blackberry. It can be a distraction. Top performers are good at sorting out priorities. Respect your time and your prospects will too. Try to end every call with your prospect wanting more.
Speaking of shipping.... - The US Post Office raised its rates a few months ago, and it's rates for magazines has trebled, I believe, which is going to drive the small press magazine publisher out of business... Anyone deal with shippig on a regular basis, and what do you use? Your in-country regular postal service FedEx UPS DHL Freight carriers and what are your experiences with each one?
Re: 'Thanks' to Whoever Mentioned . . . - Depending on how well you know your clients, you could also sent birthday cards or "get well" cards if their "Out of Office" email message says they're sick.


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