Respect. Everyone wants it!
The late Aretha Franklin made it a rallying cry in the ’60s with her iconic song. But what does this word really mean in the work setting? Interestingly, when respect is shown to us, we may not consciously notice it. But, when it’s lacking, we immediately feel its absence!
If you’ve ever been on the receiving end of disrespect, you’re acutely aware of how that feels. Maybe you haven’t been the target of outright bullying or hostility, but what about more subtle forms such as discourtesies, rudeness or personal slights?
A boss who routinely cancels your one-to-one meetings, indicating he has more important things to attend toThe colleague who takes credit for an idea that originated from youA peer who condescendingly rolls her eyes at you in a meeting when you share your opinionA manager who “rewards” your good work, not by acknowledging and recognizing you, but rather by piling on more workYour supervisor who walks by without greeting or acknowledging you in any way — like you don’t exist
Are you confident that your employees feel respected?
Your immediate response may be “Absolutely!” However, you may want to take a closer look. There may be a “disconnect” between what leaders believe about respect in their workplace and what employees actually experience. There are a couple of challenges that can cause this disconnect.