When a person is respected, you can see it immediately: he/she attracts attention as soon as he/she crosses the threshold, is listened to by colleagues and is a point of reference when seeking advice.
Those who feel respected by the team and by top management experience work with satisfaction, have a strong sense of belonging and relate smoothly to those around them. Factors that unequivocally lead to higher productivity, especially in the long term.
However, it’s not always easy to earn the respect of others, especially when you are the newcomer or when it’s your first work experience or a transfer.
Some behaviours are very helpful in this case, especially in the medium to long term.
1. Respect the rules
Arrive at work on time, respect deadlines, follow procedures and avoid continuous breaks. There is no need to behave like a ‘rebel’ at work, as it’s more useful to prove oneself a reliable person.
2. Listen actively
Sharing one’s knowledge is useful, talking all the time is not. Leave space for others and encourage an equal exchange. Listen carefully to other colleagues’ ideas and add your own input to these: short conversations will become a moment of growth and will make people feel appreciated.
3. Don’t let yourself be stepped on
It’s one thing to leave space for others but it’s quite another to allow yourself to be subjugated by bullies and rude people. If during a meeting (or an informal conversation) a colleague continuously interrupts you or raises his voice to overpower yours, assert your position. Block the person politely and kindly ask to finish what you were saying.
4. Be friendly
Greet people with a smile when you enter the office, have a quick chat with colleagues and offer a coffee or a sweet from time to time. Being polite and friendly has great power in personal relationships.
5. Show self-confidence…
…without being conceited. The line is thin and when confidence is not an innate talent, it’s easy to cross it. Never say never, though: make an effort to assert your ideas by proving yourself organised and competent.
6. Take a stand
If you notice negative behaviour or bullying towards a colleague or a category of people, politely demonstrate your opposition. You shouldn’t be afraid to get involved.
The same applies in work-related matters: you may not always have the same idea as your colleagues or your manager, but you should not leave your proposals unheeded. Often seeing ‘the other side of the coin’ is the right way to move a project forward or find a solution to a problem.
Education, confidence and empathy underpin each of these tips and many others that can help you gain respect. Relationships are everything, both at work and in private life!
