Move to the Right or Left

I know the title might have caught your eye for its political ring. But before you think this is about elections or political stance, let me assure you: it’s about something far more straightforward yet profoundly impactful. I’m writing this from Sweden, where I’ve been fully immersed in the local culture and have enjoyed conversations full of curiosity about the US and its dynamics. But let’s leave politics aside and step onto the escalator—an everyday space that reveals much about social respect and unspoken rules of engagement, a space we can all learn from.

In many countries, from England to Japan to Sweden, escalators have a standard etiquette: stand to one side, typically the right (or the left, in countries where people drive on the left). If you want to stand and ride, you keep to that side; if you’re in a rush, you pass on the other side. This unwritten rule keeps things flowing smoothly and respects both types of riders—those who move quickly and those who need or prefer a slower pace.

In the US, however, this norm is often absent. Travelers and locals alike find the lack of this simple courtesy frustrating. In a culture like Sweden’s, where respect and personal space are fundamental, this escalator etiquette serves as a small but powerful reminder of something more significant: the subtle agreements that make up societal respect. As leaders, there’s something here to ponder. If your workplace was an escalator, would your team naturally “stand to the side” for others, or is there a lack of clarity about such expectations?

The Escalator of Organizational Respect

Consider this: in many organizations, we see crystal clear guidelines, and people know exactly what’s expected of them. In such environments, team members make room for each other and respect each other’s needs, and everyone knows how to “move aside” when it’s someone else’s time to shine or step forward. Confusion and frustration often ensue when there’s a lack of defined standards or they are inconsistently enforced. In these cases, people start making up their own rules, which may lead to situations where respect feels optional or, worse, absent.

Many escalators, particularly in high-traffic areas, even have lines or signs marking where to stand. These clear indicators make it easy for newcomers to understand the custom, setting them up for success. Similarly, when rules or expectations are communicated in a workplace, everyone knows what’s expected, making it easier to respect each other and work together efficiently.

Self-Policing and Organizational Integrity

In cultures where escalator etiquette is second nature, people adhere to it whether someone’s watching or not. This level of self-policing speaks to a culture of integrity that leaders can aspire to cultivate in their teams. When employees “move to the right” without being prompted, it signals a high level of respect and understanding, creating a supportive and efficient work environment. This level of social respect doesn’t just happen; it’s built by example, setting standards, and modeling the behavior you want to see. Once the culture is established, it sustains itself through mutual respect and accountability.

As leaders, we all want teams that can “stand to the side” when appropriate and know when it’s their turn to take the lead. This requires a culture where people aren’t constantly monitoring each other but naturally embody the organization’s values of respect, trust, and integrity.

A Broader Perspective from Travel

More than anything, travel teaches us to observe, absorb, and respect the rules that govern daily life in different cultures. When I meet young leaders, one of my favorite questions is what advice they would give their peers. Those who have traveled invariably say, “Travel more.” It broadens perspective, introduces new ideas, and helps us understand the subtleties of human interaction in a way that only exposure to different cultures can provide. It cultivates empathy and shows us why simple acts—like stepping to the side on an escalator—can be righteous gestures of respect and understanding.

Where Do You Stand?

So, let’s bring this back to you as a leader. Are you “blocking the way” for others in your organization through unclear expectations or unspoken rules? Do your team members know the “social rules” in your workplace, or are they left guessing? More importantly, is respect an integral part of your organizational culture? Taking a break to reflect on these questions might reveal areas where a slight adjustment could improve your team’s flow and mutual respect.

In the end, moving to the right (or left) isn’t just about escalators. It’s a reminder that respect is a social lubricant, an unspoken agreement that makes life—and work—more harmonious. So, step aside for others when needed, stand firm when it’s your turn, and ensure your organization’s “escalator” encourages everyone to find their place.

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