Respect In Business

vs. rudeness

Treating others with honor and dignity

To practice Respect, I will:

Have consideration for those around me.
Treat others as I would want to be treated.
Be careful not to use offensive language.
Honor my elders and my authorities.
Not keep others waiting.

Take the Time to Be Respectful

Early in my career, I made a dreadful mistake at work. My project team and another project team were disagreeing on how to handle a common program between the two teams. I wrote a memo to the director, bypassing my manager, explaining the situation. That attention resulted in the use of a consultant to advise on the situation, as it would set a precedent for future work. Ultimately, my team’s approach was chosen, and I felt justified in raising the alarm. That was until my manager called me on my lack of respect for his position. He was hurt that I could do that to him. I was mortified and remorseful. This was a person who I respected and enjoyed working for. In my haste for a decision, I didn’t consider the respectful way to approach it. Even though I was right, I did it all wrong. It took a while to mend that fence, but eventually, we did, and I’m grateful.

How can you combine Patience and Respect?