The Importance of Dignity and Respect in the workplace & How to Demonstrate the same.

The importance of dignity and respect in the workplace is something that must be understood by employees at every level of seniority. It is a vital part of establishing a healthy working environment. Mutual respect in the workplace lets all employees know that they are valued for their achievements, abilities and qualities.

Almost every workplace will experience conflicts from time to time. Such disagreements can lead to decreased productivity, demotivation and misunderstanding. Employees won’t always see eye-to-eye, and the workplace can harbour many obstacles for colleagues to disagree over. After all, we all have different perspectives, outlooks and ways of working.

That said, all employees, irrespective of level they are in must understand that a professional attitude and a respectful demeanour come first when conducting themselves in the workplace.

Demonstrating dignity and respect towards others in the workplace is a core element of leader’s role in creating culture where employees feel valued and able to bring their whole selves to work. Not only does it create a healthy environment which improves employee engagement, well being, satisfaction and retention, it also reaps dividends for organization. When treated with dignity and respect individuals and teams collaborate more, leading to innovation and productivity.?

A culture of dignity and respect can reduce workspace stress. Studies says 18 million days of work were lost due to stress, depression or anxiety in 2020.?

Ensuring we show dignity and respect to our colleagues demonstrates we value them and their input. It means that when things go wrong, it is dealt respectfully and constructively. These should be learning opportunities where we can all grow and develop.?

When teams encourage this kind of learning and empower their team members to become more collaborative, their teams will be more able to share ideas and innovation,? make decisions and take accountability without the fear of intimidation or telling off. This in turn, helps reduce workspace stress and improve staff satisfaction and job fulfilment.

When team members know that they are valued by their leaders and team members, they are less stressed and more committed. The culture of treating others with dignity and respect increase organisation’s ability to attract and retain talent as well.

Dignity and respect at work show in individuals in many different ways. Some of the attributes are, Trustworthy, Able to reach with consideration of others, Able to listen, Respectful of others and of self, Assertive, Recongnise when compromise is needed, Principles, Tolerant, Non-Judgemental, Thoughtful, Courage to challenge and challenge with care and respect, Fair, Considerate, Active Listening, Open-minded,? Use Respectful Language, Celebrate other’s success and achievements, Inclusive, Able to ‘let go’ ( when appropriate ) and last but not least, ‘Be Authentic and Honest’.

The list goes on and on, but gives an indication of the wide range of qualities through which dignity and respect can be demonstrated.?

Dedicated to #disrespectfulleaders