Respect Isn’t Just Nice to Have, It’s Expected

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, the dynamics of workplace culture have become increasingly significant. Employees are no longer content with merely fulfilling their job roles; they seek environments where they are respected, and their well-being is prioritized. This shift is reflected in recent studies that highlight the prevalence of incivility and the growing importance of well-being and engagement in the workplace. Understanding these trends is crucial for fostering a respectful and supportive work environment. 

According to SHRM, 66% of employees in the United States have reported experiencing or witnessing incivility in their workplace. The most common forms include addressing others disrespectfully and interrupting others while they are speaking. While these may not seem like serious issues, this pattern of behavior can lead to conflict and turnover.  Some of the terms and behaviors we use without a second thought may be undermining respect. A recent Deloitte survey showed that 84% of survey respondents are prioritizing their well-being at work, with 74% considering it to be more important than advancing their career. Respect isn’t just nice to have, it’s expected. It is everyone’s responsibility to create workplaces where people feel seen, valued and safe. 

Creating a workplace culture rooted in respect and well-being is not just a trend; it’s a necessity. As employees increasingly prioritize their mental and emotional health, organizations must adapt to meet these expectations. By addressing incivility and fostering a respectful environment, companies can enhance employee satisfaction, engagement, and productivity. Remember, respect should be the default in every interaction. If there’s any doubt about whether your words or actions will be perceived as kind and respectful, it’s better to hold back. Let’s commit to building workplaces where respect and well-being are the cornerstones of our daily interactions.  

For additional resources on fostering a respectful work environment, check out these SupportLinc resources:  Practicing Kindness and Communication During an Argument. You can also sign up for the Professionalism in the Workplace class or Crucial Conversations classes offered by our Learning and Leadership Development (LLD) department. To view the LLD Course Catalog, click here!

–Amy Lasater, Manager of Learning and Leadership Development

Mattice, C. (2025, April 16). Offensive Terms You Didn’t Know Were Offensive: Learn What to Avoid. Linkedin. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/offensive-terms-you-didnt-know-were-learn-what-avoid-catherine-q6djc 

Click Here for Printable Version