According to a leadership expert, the top method for earning greater respect in the workplace is by stating, "I have been instructing others on this topic for many years."
The lack of respect from coworkers in a job can quickly ruin an otherwise positive experience.
If you're concerned about ending up in a job you don't like or respect, remember that you have the power to change your approach. You can earn the respect of your colleagues, superiors, and subordinates before making any job changes.
Start by asking yourself these critical questions:
- What can I give to earn respect?
- What can I resist to earn respect?
- What can I exude to earn respect?
For decades, I've taught the Give-Resist-Exude framework for respect, and in my recent book, "The Mentally Strong Leader," I explored the mental strength and fortitude required to earn respect, which I've been studying for over 30 years.
To be more respected, it is essential to perform these three fundamental actions.
1. Give
By consistently giving more than you receive, you will earn respect. Some of the most universally appreciated ways to do so include:
- Assist individuals in overcoming challenges and navigating difficult circumstances by providing guidance and support. For instance, if a coworker is anxious about an upcoming significant presentation, you can offer your expertise in public speaking to help them practice.
- Always give an extra 10% effort in your interactions, just like the smiling coffee barista or hardworking waiter you see giving that extra effort.
- Expressing gratitude has a positive impact on others, as research shows that it can increase their appreciation and respect for you.
- Share your point of view — and back it up with data.
- Rewritten sentence: Please provide feedback on the rewritten sentence.
- Rewritten sentence: By treating others with respect, you increase the chances of receiving respect in return.
2. Resist
Respect can be earned by avoiding certain behaviors. Here are some effective ways to resist those behaviors and earn respect.
- When the chance arises to acknowledge the contributions of others to an achievement, it's better to highlight them rather than taking credit. This will demonstrate your humility and respect for others, and people will appreciate your selflessness.
- Instead of gossiping about coworkers, engage in positive gossip by sharing good things that coworkers have done. This will not only improve the workplace culture but also benefit the person being praised.
- Staying positive is a deliberate choice in a world that is often pessimistic and divided. Optimism drives progress and is often admired because it is the opposite of the default.
3. Exude
You can earn respect if you habitually demonstrate:
- Ensure professionalism and mastery by always arriving prepared, knowing your audience, their requirements, and the plan to meet them.
- Being transparent is crucial for building trust and respect. When you're not open about your intentions, people lose confidence in you. To avoid this, be honest about your decision-making process, provide feedback, and operate with integrity.
- To convey authenticity, display honesty, integrity, and vulnerability. Be genuine and approachable in your behavior. Consistently act in accordance with your values.
- Compassionate accountability: Rather than scolding or taking a harsh stance when someone makes a mistake, hold others and yourself accountable with empathy and compassion.
- Believing in yourself and the collective strength of others is a powerful combination. Consistently striking a balance between confidence and collaboration can make you more attractive and respected.
By concentrating on what you can offer, withhold, and emit, you will attract respect.
Scott Mautz is a well-known speaker, trainer, and LinkedIn Learning instructor. He was previously a senior executive at Procter & Gamble, where he oversaw several of the company's largest multi-billion-dollar businesses. He is the author of "The Mentally Strong Leader: Develop the Skills to Control Your Emotions, Thoughts, and Actions." Connect with him on LinkedIn.
To become a successful and confident communicator, enroll in CNBC's online course, "Become an Effective Communicator: Master Public Speaking." Our program will teach you how to speak clearly and confidently, manage your nerves, choose the right words, and use effective body language to make a great first impression. Sign up now.
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