For new workers and executive managers alike, respect is key to advancing your career, maintaining positive relationships in the workplace and having your voice heard. However, modern workers only give respect to those who earn it. Learn what it takes to gain respect through your attitude, actions and even appearance.
Acting tough to command respect at work may seem like a sure way to gain it, but workers are more likely to respect you if they believe you are worthy of respect. In this way, it is better to be loved than feared if you want to gain respect, especially if you are in a managerial or leadership position. In fact, while Baby Boomers tend to respect individuals based on their position of authority, Millenials more likely to follow leaders who are caring and approachable, according to Careerealism.
If you want to gain respect, understand that being vulnerable is helpful to your cause. While you may see it as a weakness, others view it as being honest and showing your true self. For leaders, being vulnerable may mean asking team members for help. Workers understand that no one is all-knowing, and they appreciate the chance to share their ideas. For workers, this means engaging in teamwork. When a problem arises, work with other employees to solve it, and try to genuinely understand each idea and point of view. This helps you gain respect by first giving it.
Business professionals of all levels can gain respect by owning up to their mistakes, which expresses humility and honesty. Although you don't have to beg for forgiveness, you should verbally acknowledge the mistake you've made and the implications of it. Explain why you made the decision you did and what you are doing to remedy the situation.
To gain the respect of others, you must first respect yourself. This means knowing when to say "no" to a request, avoiding doing things for those who don't value you, and knowing you don't have to do favors for everyone. Don't try to please one person, such as your manager, and never try to please everyone all the time. Politely declining when someone asks for a favor shows that you value your own time, and it makes those around you appreciate when you do choose to take time to help them.
Keeping up appearances is another key to gaining respect at work, as a sloppy appearance may lead other business professionals to think that you are scattered or disorganized. Keep your hair and clothing neat, wearing appropriate, ironed, unstained clothing.
One final component of respect is trust, so always keep your lips sealed if a co-worker or employee confides in you. Avoid gossip and any other activities that show disrespect to co-workers or managers. Showing respect to all members of the hierarchy can help you can gain respect in the workplace.
Follow these simple suggestions to gain the respect of everyone in your workplace. Remember to be vulnerable, own up to your mistakes, dress professionally and value the trust of your co-workers. In the modern workplace, only those who earn respect gain the respect of their managers and peers.
Photo courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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