Respect – It’s Not Just Another 7-Letter Word
Posted on Fri, Sep 17, 2010 @ 09:45 AM
R-E-S-P-E-C-T. What a classic song by Aretha Franklin. She sang it with such sass, confidence and power. This makes perfect sense, given that respect is such a powerful word and so integral to our workplaces. Showing respect in professional environments is so important that many companies even include the word in their value statements.
Respect in the Workplace
At MCPc, we have created a working environment where it’s not okay to yell, ever. We smile and greet each other when passing by in the hallways. We value one another’s time and personal commitments. Because good teamwork comes from being considerate of others’ belongings, abilities, beliefs and personalities, we work to ensure that our environment is free from all levels of harassment.
In short, we treat each other with respect.
“As a new associate at MCPc, I feel respected when my coworkers are sure to introduce me to any visiting customer or vendor they know I work with, but haven’t yet met in person,” said David Martter, Customer Service Representative.
Encouraging Respect from the Top-Level Down
Treating one another as equals, no matter their position, is a golden rule that starts with our executive team and trickles down. Successful associates at MCPc don’t understand the phrase, “It’s not my job.” In fact, even executives have been known to shovel the sidewalk in front of our office if our facilities team — who usually takes care of shoveling — is swamped with orders to get packed and shipped.
Managers who treat their team members respectfully are critically important to good organizations. At MCPc, we expect our managers to show respect to their team members by clearly defining expectations, valuing their opinions, treating everyone fairly and taking timely steps to correct any offensive behavior they may see. Ultimately, great managers should care about each team member as a person and encourage his or her professional development.
“It’s important to show associates that you respect their accomplishments by recognizing them,” said Karen Kulow, Sales Support Representative. “A quick letter to a supervisor letting them know how much you appreciate something one of their team members did is key. Just last week I sent a note to a coworker's manager letting them know how their team member made my customer’s life easier by expediting an order for them.”
Respect Outside Our Walls
It’s not just internal — we are equally serious in regard to how we treat our customers. MCPc employees strive to carefully listen to customer needs, be empathetic toward them and develop solutions that meet their specific goals. After customers have trusted us with their time, concerns, and often budgets, it’s important that we show our respect by genuinely keeping their best interests at heart.
“Responding promptly to customer inquiries shows respect,” said Cindy Magic, Sales Support Representative. “Don’t leave customers wondering if anyone is on the other end of their emails. Being respectful of their time when calling is also key.”
A Conscious, Continuous Effort
We know we’re not perfect when it comes to being respectful, and we continue to work toward being better at it every day. For example, we encourage all employees to consciously think about things such as:
- Not using speakerphone in close-cube settings
- Always showing up to meetings on time
- Giving credit where credit is due
- Not sending unwanted email
- Communicating directly, honestly and effectively
- Giving their very best to the job every day
How Do You Define Respect?
Dictionary.com defines respect as “esteem for or a sense of the worth or excellence of a person, a personal quality or ability.” I truly believe that showing respect in the workplace, through words and actions, can boost self-esteem and camaraderie. This attitude helps associates respect themselves and others more, thus creating a healthy and cohesive working environment.
How do you show respect to your co-workers? Do you feel respected at work?
 |
Beth Stec is VP of Corporate Communications and Human Resources at MCPc, and is responsible for the development and management of personnel programs and policies. Connect with Beth on LinkedIn.
|
Stay Connected with MCPc: Subscribe to the blog; follow us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn.