How to Get Respect at Work

Most of the time in our current stressful environment, we tend to forget our boundaries and this happens with all of us sometime or the other. Respect is one aspect of our personality which can make or break the situation. It can actually change the relation from avoidance to interdependence. 

So, how we should be in our professional environments to get maximum benefit out of it and its not a one way road.

Respect others: Show your coworkers that they matter. Respect the authority of your bosses and treat underlings well.

Do your job and do it well: Don't make anyone carry your workload, be on time and offer to help coworkers when possible. 

If you do not understand something or cannot handle a task do not be afraid to seek help or partner up with a coworker.

Have dignity: It's great to help out others but don't let yourself be the office pushover either. Don't do everyone's work for them. 

Tell the boss, "I can take one for the team this time" which lets him/her know that you are willing to pitch in but you are nobody's fool.

Be discreet: Nobody respects a gossip. And nobody wants to have to watch what they say around you because you'll go blabbering all over the office. Respect people's confidence in you.

Look good: Shower as often as is needed(at least daily) wear freshly laundered clothing, get them pressed if necessary. 

Ladies should wear a reasonable amount of makeup-nothing heavy or better suited for a night at a club(unless you work at a club). 

Keep jewelry tasteful and appropriate for your occupation. 

Hair should be neat, clean and should not get in the way of doing your job.

Be confident: Stand up straight, hold your chin up, make eye contact, use a firm hand shake and SMILE!

Make others feel good about you: Greeting each person by name shows that they matter to you.  

Everyone wants to feel important and be heard. 

Make a random honest compliment to someone you work with. 

Do this every day to a different person.

Be a person of your word: Keeping your word is one of the biggest things you can do to gain respect. And in doing so you make a good reputation.

Keep your cool: Be unflappable (calm). Do not let jerk bosses or rude coworkers cause you to be overly emotional or verbal. 

Nearly every job has one so bite your tongue, don't get involved with office drama or infighting and always take the high road.

Give proper credit: When working with others always be sure to give others their due credit. Don't hog all of the kudos, let others bask in the glory of accomplishment with you. 

The Bottom Line:  these are just my opinions, and with globalization and our cultural differences, it is not a simple as it sounds. But the bottom line is....

Give Respect to Get Respect!!!!!