Respect(fulness)

Respect(fulness) is one of those values that is hard to define and practice. Or at least it sure seems to be. With three company surveys under our belt in the past 4 years, respect has been at the top of every list as to what we want. Yet, I find it is regularly one the values we practice the least. I say this because I continue to hear and see us dis-respecting each other and our workplace.

We'll use the definition of Respect as defined in the book Speed of Trust in its chapter on Behavior #2: Demonstrate Respect. It states Demonstrate Respect as based on the principles of respect, fairness, fairness, kindness, and civility. (page 145)

The author, Stephen M.R. Covey farther tells the reader the “opposite” of Demonstrating Respect includes not showing people you care – either because you really don’t care, or because you don’t know how or don’t take the time to do it.” (page 145) He goes on define to the “counterfeit” as “faking respect or concern, or, most insidious of all, to show respect and concern for some (those who can do something for you), but not for all (those who can’t). (page 145)

I don’t care who you are, that’s good stuff and worth the price of the book by itself.

Oh, and Mr. Covey says that Demonstrating Respect is a Character trait! (numerous pages including 231)

How about this; tie it into Trust and we just treat everyone 1. the way we'd like to be treated, 2. the same no matter who they are, and 3. without favorites.


Danny