Seldom do we think of workplace respect as a factor that impacts organizational unity. In many organizations, the job gets done however people are treated. Yet our behavior toward and from one another can impact our business judgment, decision-making and our performance. Today, workplace respect must be considered an essential part of strengthening and sustaining organizational unity. It is also a part of making the vision a reality.

If you have a rule of only respecting those who respect you, you limit the opportunities to bring the best out of people. However, if you always exercise respect for everyone whatever the circumstances, you set yourself up to take advantage of the creativity and productive decision-making that moves things forward. When you label people, you look for the label that you give them. If you call someone ‘selfish,’ for instance, you may recognize that one characteristic in the person enough to hide other qualities or motives that may help or impress you. Take the label away. That gives you the power to develop a productive relationship that works.