Respect is something that is not given immediately. Must be won. When you are in a leadership position, it is imperative that the people you work with respect you. They can respect your work habits, intelligence or ability to successfully sign a deal.
However, there is much more to it than that. If you can earn their respect as a person, then you have really won the “game”.
Here are some tips to gain more respect.
- Be polite.
Always be polite to everyone you meet during the day, from family members to co-workers to the grocer at the grocery store, etc. Give others the same respect you want them to give you. Hold the café door to the person behind you, or let the person with an item pass in front of you at the supermarket cash register. Try to use the words “please” and “thank you” as much as you can.
- Show respect
Eliminate disrespectful behaviors, such as rolling your eyes, interrupting, or speaking ill of someone. Not only do these actions disrespect the person you are communicating with, but they prevent or hinder further involvement or resolution of issues and create a gap that can become permanent. Instead, try to create an environment in which to listen to the people in front of you. Everyone deserves to be heard, even if you do not agree with a person’s views or opinions.
- Good listener
Listening is an active process, not a passive one. Think before you speak. Often in today’s conversations, a person’s comments “provoke” thoughts in the listener, who then brings his story in the same line. Instead of telling your story, ask questions that encourage the speaker to tell you more. Most people will enjoy it when you are interested.
- Give your help when you can
People gain respect by always being willing to reach out or listen whenever needed or when they see that they have an opportunity to help someone. Does an associate need help with a big project? Can you have a cup of coffee with someone? Try to give your help several times a day.
- Do not ask for excuses.
Your actions are based on your choices and there is no reason for excuses. For example, if you are constantly late, do not try to justify yourself in vain and make various excuses. Acknowledge your mistakes and instead of dealing with them, look for opportunities to overcome them and act better next time.
- Do not hold grudges.
Holding a grudge does not hurt anyone but yourself. If you get bored with something or someone, try to get through it as soon as possible then go ahead and fix the situation or try to put behind your back what happened. Forgive, and then forget.
- Be willing to change.
You need to understand that the development process involves change. Strive to grow as a person; learn new skills, try new activities and especially, review your behaviors. And do not forget to commend yourself for the progress you have made along the way to becoming a better person. / Entrepreneur.
