Good Morning

Respect is of the utmost importance to most of us. Unfortunately I’ve seen too many occasions when people, especially in the workplace, believe they should be respected but don’t need to respect others in the same way.

Respect will make your workplace a happier and more productive environment. Why don’t you try these tips to create it today...

Create a respectful workplace

To enhance the physical, psychological and social well-being of all employees, ensure your employees:

 Receive training in professionalism which covers:

• Personal image
• Communication – including telephone and e-etiquette and non-verbal
• Business etiquette
• Competence (skill, knowledge, aptitude and attitude)
• Trustworthiness
• Empathy and compassion
• Respectfulness
• Manners
• Emotional maturity
• Quality of relationships
• Work ethics

Are held accountable for their behaviour. Deal with any unprofessional behaviour by having an open, respectful discussion with the employee. Make it clear you expect the behaviour to stop and confirm your discussion to the employee in writing.

Don’t reject or humiliate him. Help him to buy into the notion of professionalism.

• Understand what you expect of them. Continue coaching and mentoring a problem employee and conduct further professionalism training if his behaviour doesn’t improve.
• As a last resort, write a letter of warning. This will depend on the circumstances and the severity and impact of the unprofessional conduct.
• Coach and train staff to value each other, their clients, subordinates and superiors by respecting each other’s beliefs, values, religious affiliation, gender, culture, etc.
• Report disrespectful behaviour to management by complaining to Human Resources or your boss – in writing or face-to-face.
• Resolve conflict amicably and respectfully in the workplace.

While you’re thinking about this advice, why don’t you have a look at how the Practical Guide to Human Resources can help you in other areas of your employee management too...

Have a great week...

Sarah-Jane Bosch
Managing Editor: Personnel Division