How to Create a Culture of Respect

Everyone on the planet, no matter what position, social status, culture, religion or role they’re in, deserves to be and wants to be treated with respect. In business and leadership, our world has never been more connected and diverse than it is right now. And as leaders, we must actively build a culture of respect. 

Why Do We Need a Culture of Respect? 

Being a leader that builds high levels of respect among everyone in the business sets the tone for the culture and how customers are treated. In doing so, they also determine how profitable the business is. They are all inextricably linked.  

Have a hard time relating to some generations, cultures, genders or positions in the workplace?  It is time for you to quit and become a hermit on a deserted island far, far away from people (I have a couple people in mind that I would like to send there.) 

Building Blocks for Creating a Culture of Respect 

Want to learn how to create a culture of respect, trust, safety, connection, belonging and high performance?  Here’s my practice list for you: 

1. Say “Please” a lot.  Saying please means that I respect you. 
2. Say “Thank you” a lot.  Saying thank you means I appreciate you. 
3. Be vulnerable.  As a leader, one of the most valuable things you can do for your team and culture is express what you are weak at or what you struggle with. This fosters a new level of empathy and trust from your team. 
4. Treat people with kindness.  Self-explanatory. 
5. Work on your Emotional Intelligence.  EQ, like all of us, is a work in progress. When we become more aware of how we feel under certain scenarios, we are able to regulate our responses. We are then able to express more empathy towards others. 
6. Include all coworkers in meetings, discussions, training, and events. While not every person can participate in every activity, do not marginalize, exclude or leave any one person out. 

Robert Murray is a Vancouver, BC based Business Strategy Consultant, #1 Best Selling Author, and International Keynote Speaker. For further advice, insight and inspiration on how to unlock your inner leader, follow Robert on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

Click here to get his weekly Tuesday Tune Up blog posts straight to your inbox.