Respect of Employees in the Workplace
Respect is one of the most important things in any relationship, including between colleagues in the workplace. When employees feel respected by their bosses and coworkers, they are more likely to be productive and happy. However, it’s a problem all over the world.
Sadly, many companies don’t do enough to create a respectful work environment. From disrespectful comments and jokes to simple favouritism, employees often face disrespectful behaviour from their coworkers and superiors. Over time, this can lead to a toxic work environment where employees don’t feel safe or respected. It also leads to higher employee turnover, which can be extremely costly for companies.
What happens when respect is lacking in the workplace?
Unhappy Workers – Primarily, when respect is lacking in the workplace, employees become unhappy. They feel unappreciated and undervalued for their contributions to the company, which can lead them to feel unmotivated and disinterested in the day-to-day operations of the business. Even when respect is missing between colleagues, coming to work becomes a challenge.
Low Morale – When respect is low among employees, morale also suffers. It is difficult to work with colleagues who don’t show respect or treat each other with kindness. Without a sense of mutual respect, employees may become disengaged and disconnected, leading to a lack of productivity.
Higher Turnover – For the business, low morale and a lack of respect in the workplace can lead to higher turnover. Employees may not want to stay in an environment where they don’t feel appreciated or valued. Businesses need to take a proactive approach to make sure that respect is part of the culture so that employees don’t feel the need to leave.
Every year, employees make career decisions based on more than just money. Respect in the workplace is a key factor that many employees consider when making decisions about where to work. If employees don’t feel respected, they may decide to move on to a different job (even if it means a lower wage!).
Lower Productivity – Finally, low respect in the workplace can lead to lower productivity. When employees don’t feel respected, they may not be as motivated or inspired to work hard and produce their best work.
Preventing Workplace Bullying
If you want to avoid all these problems (who doesn’t?), it’s important to prevent workplace bullying and create an environment of respect. Here are some simple steps you can take to create a respectful work environment that everyone can enjoy:
Set Clear Expectations – Make sure employees know what is expected of them and that their work will be respected by providing clear instructions and guidance. When employees join the company, have them review the company policies and expectations so that everyone is on the same page.
Encourage Open Conversation – Keep communication lines open and allow employees to voice their opinions without fear of retribution. If employees feel safe expressing their opinions, they will be more likely to respect each other and the decisions that management makes.
Recognise Achievements – Acknowledge employees who go the extra mile or have made great contributions to the company; this will encourage a positive work environment where people feel respected and valued.
Encourage Training – With workplace bullying and harassment prevention training online and in-person, employees can be better equipped to handle tense situations without resorting to a lack of respect for one another. Additionally, training can cover topics such as effective communication, which can help employees better understand each other.
Why not make positive strides to prevent workplace bullying this year?
