One of the first and simple lessons that managers can learn is to treat employees and teammates with respect and kindness.

Not only does respect impact employee engagement, but also their productivity and well-being. For some, respect means a formal language, rules, and code of conduct, while for others, it is a way of appreciating others. 

It is important to remember that respect goes well beyond being polite and adopting a friendly tone. Showing respect is rooted in respecting the people around you and everything they carry and contribute. 

What is Workplace Respect?

Workplace respect starts with recognizing that everyone you work with has something of value to contribute.

We are humans, not machines, and we have more to us than what appears on the surface level.

It is about giving credit where credit is due and respecting others' ideas. 

3 Ways Middle Managers Can Lead with Respect at the Workplace 

Carry the torch like it’s yours 

When you are in management, you will often be responsible for executing ideas that are not your own. The way you represent and implement these ideas makes a world of difference. Doing so with conviction and authority is a difference-maker. 

Sometimes the ideas you come up with will need to be carried out by others.

The important thing to remember is to be respectful of other's ideas and give them the same amount of value as you would give your ideas. Give credit where it’s due, and continue to bring ideas to life in the best way possible. 

Give and Receive Feedback 

Prioritize your ideas and limit your feedback to the most crucial issues. Avoid general comments that may be of little value to the receiver. Try including examples to get your point across and back it up with alternatives. 

When receiving feedback, make sure you listen intently without interrupting the person. Avoid being defensive when interacting with your boss, a teammate, or an employee in the lower hierarchy. Carefully consider your tone and body language, which could give a negative or positive message.

Similarly, attentiveness shows that you respect and value what the other person says, putting both of you at ease. 

Recognize Achievements 

Showing appreciation for an employee's efforts shows you respect and value their ideas.

Rather than hogging all the credit or overlooking it, lean more towards recognizing and rewarding it appropriately. Applauding employee achievements boosts their confidence and improves productivity. 

Summing Up 

Leading with respect at work is fundamental for achieving meaningful relationships, team goals, and collective outcomes.

The littlest actions go a long way in building, maintaining, and restoring confidence among employees. simple actions like including people in meetings and valuing their ideas.

However, being respectful doesn’t mean you will not say "no" when needed. The two concepts are not mutually exclusive.