When you’re in a leadership position, it is imperative that the people with whom you work respect you. Respect is something not automatically given. It must be earned. Here are some tips for earning more respect.When you’re a leader, it’s important that you earn respect.
Be polite
Always be polite to everyone you meet during the day
- Give others the same respect you’d like to receive yourself
- Seek out actions you can take to offer politeness
- Open the door at the coffee shop for the person behind you, or let the person with one item go ahead of you
Act respectfully
Foster an environment of respectful listening
- Everyone deserves to be heard, even if you don’t agree with a person’s views or opinions
- Consider how you’d like to be treated if you have something to say, especially if there is an important issue at hand
Let go of anger
Forgive and forget
Listen well
Think before you speak.
- Instead of telling your tale, ask questions that encourage the speaker to tell you more. Most people will be flattered that you care and will appreciate the attention you are giving them.
- Be open to feedback and ask for your own.
Be willing to change
Make an effort to grow as a person; learn new skills, try new activities, and especially, re-examine your automatic behaviors.
Be helpful
be ready to lend a hand or an ear whenever they’re needed
- Look for opportunities to help that you might have previously overlooked
- Strive to be helpful several times a day
- Earn respect by being ready to help whenever you see an opportunity
Don’t make excuses
Actions are based on your choices, and barring some unforeseen circumstance, there is no reason for excuses. Own your actions
- Look for opportunities to move past them and do better next time.
- Instead of focusing on your shortcomings, ask, “How can I rectify my behavior or situation?”
