Course Transcript
2. Demonstrating Respect
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Course Overview
As an employee, you should think of yourself as a "citizen" of the organization you work for. As
a citizen, you are deserving of respect and also expected to act respectfully toward other
"citizens."
But the basic principles of respecting your fellow workers are the same whether your coworker
is in the next cubicle or on another continent.
Harassment is against the law in most countries around the world. Though the laws may differ
slightly in the details, they all aim to protect people from discrimination and harassment in the
workplace.
In order to ensure that employees follow the law, and to promote a professional work
environment, companies create and enforce policies that reflect the organization's values and
expectations for employee conduct.
As an employee, you should be familiar with your company's antiharassment policy so you can
be sure your conduct is consistent with these expectations.
The basic idea is simple. You can help create the kind of respectful workplace that everyone
wants and deserves by acting with professionalism, tact, and consideration toward all your
coworkers, wherever they are located.
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A Respectful Workplace
Learning Objective
After completing this topic, you should be able to
recognize the benefits of treating people respectfully at work
1. Introduction
A Respectful Workplace
Graphic
Host: Consider this situation. Ravi, Reuben, and Sara work for
a bicycle manufacturer and have been tasked with generating
ideas to improve sales. Ravi is reporting back to the others on
his ideas...
The host finishes speaking and a new scene begins. Ravi is
speaking to his colleague Sara. There is documentation on the
table in front of each participant, including in front of an
empty chair at the table.
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Reuben: Oh...right...
Reuben turns to page two of his document and starts reading.
Reuben: Right...
The scene fades and a new scene begins.
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Sara: The meeting was hard to follow. But that wasn't Ravi's
fault.
Sara is irritated, and she stresses "was".
2. A disrespectful workplace
A respectful workplace is in everyone's interest. After all, when coworkers offend, embarrass,
or disrespect each other, they can damage working relationships, lower productivity, and
increase employee turnover. In addition, some forms of disrespectful conduct may be
considered harassment, which is illegal.
Question
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Reuben's behavior wouldn't rise to the level of illegal harassment, but it was certainly
unprofessional. As well as interfering with the business of the meeting, it has a
negative impact on Ravi's morale.
What were some of the ways in which Reuben was disrespectful toward Ravi?
Options:
Answer
Option 1: It's clear that he wasn't there at the beginning of the meeting. When you're
invited to a meeting, it's basic courtesy to arrive on time.
Option 2: One indication that Reuben wasn't prepared for this meeting is that he
didn't have a pen to make any notes. Coming with pen and paper suggests that you
expect your colleague to say something of value, which is a sign of respect.
Option 3: The fact that Reuben "missed breakfast" isn't an excuse. It's inappropriate
to arrive at such a meeting and begin having a meal. It suggests you're not taking
your colleagues or the meeting seriously.
Option 4: Probably the rudest thing Reuben did at the meeting was taking the call
about his car. Even leaving his phone switched on is impolite, let alone actually
having the conversation while Ravi is trying to conduct the meeting and Sara is trying
to pay attention. As with other forms of disrespect, this kind of behavior indicates a
failure to value your colleague and what he is saying.
Option 5: Reuben had placed his coffee and donut on the document, so it's clear he
doesn't intend following along with it. He also failed to pick up on a reference to the
document when he asked about the competitors.
Option 6: There's no suggestion in the scene that Reuben was whispering to Sara.
That would certainly have been extremely rude.
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Correct answer(s):
The quality of work relationships has a major bearing on job satisfaction. If all Ravi's coworkers
were like Sara there wouldn't be a problem. Sara is clearly perceptive enough to recognize
disrespect when she sees it. But Reuben's inconsiderate behavior isn't the worst thing Ravi
has to deal with.
Part of Ravi's job is to make monthly presentations to the larger team, but now he dreads
these meetings because of the behavior of Reuben and another colleague, Jane. These two
like to spend these meetings whispering disparaging comments about Ravi. Jane seems to
enjoy making Ravi nervous and uncomfortable during his presentations.
At other times, Jane sends text messages to Reuben with jokes about Ravi's idiosyncrasies of
speech.
Graphic
Jane's text message says "Did you hear what he just said? He's illiterate."
Ravi has tried to be friendly, but whenever he expresses an opinion, no matter what the
subject, Jane puts him down with a sneering comment.
Not only that, but in the break room Jane and Reuben seem to make a point of snubbing him.
As a result, he feels very isolated.
Ravi's afraid to complain because he doesn't want to seem like an oversensitive complainer,
and he figures that if Jane and Reuben don't like him, there's nothing that can be done about it.
But the job is becoming unbearable, and his performance is suffering because he's so tense.
He's at the point of quitting.
Instead of the workplace being a fulfilling environment where Ravi can flourish, it's become
toxic due to his coworkers' rude and disrespectful conduct.
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And Ravi isn't the only one having a hard time. Another employee at the plant, Dave, is making
work difficult for his assistant, Julie. Follow along with a typical exchange between them.
Dave: Hi gorgeous. What have you got for me today? Have you
heard back from Brocadero's about why we're still waiting on
that consignment of wheels?
Dave: Wow. You're more than just a pretty face! Lloyd over
there's such a pain in the neck. You must have really sweet
talked him?
Julie: Do you need me for anything else? I'd better get back to
the report I'm working on.
Julie is uncomfortable and embarrassed.
Dave: Say, how about drinks later? I could put a word in for a
raise for you.
Dave: A what? Are you kidding me? You're not one of those
types, are you? Come on...skip the class. And we can do a
little studying on our own.
Julie really needs this job, so she tries to ignore Dave's unwelcome attention. But she's so
upset by Dave's near constant leering, touching, and suggesting that they go out together, that
she often finds herself close to tears.
Dave seems very popular with the company's upper management, so Julie feels that there's no
one she can turn to.
Given the stress Dave is putting her under, Julie's work is suffering.
Graphic
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A productivity chart posted on the wall shows there has been a steep drop in Julie's
customer service calls over the month.
So what do you think about this bicycle manufacturer? Does it seem like a good place to work?
Note
Think about this for a moment, and when you're ready, select the Next button to continue.
If you said "no" you're in good company. Ravi and Julie are both experiencing inappropriate
behavior that is toxic to their work environment and the company as a whole.
If this disrespectful behavior is seen to be the "norm," even people who might not otherwise
engage in such behavior may become desensitized to it and come to accept it as the way
things are.
You can't help but wonder how many of Ravi's or Julie's coworkers are also subject to the
same kinds of rude behavior.
value all of your coworkers and the various talents, skills, and perspectives they bring to
the organization
be courteous in all your communications
consider the perspectives of others
never harass, bully, or intimidate others, and
don't ignore rude, uncivil, or harassing conduct if you witness it
Select each principle for more information.
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Be careful with e-mail. A casually written e-mail can easily come off as disrespectful or
even offensive, even when that was not the intention.
Consider the perspectives of others
To understand how others would wish to be treated, it helps to imagine yourself in a
similar circumstance.
Other conduct to avoid includes bullying, intimidation, and any form of physical
violence.
Don't ignore harassing conduct
If you witness uncivil or harassing behavior, speak up. Don't assume someone else will
report harassment or that HR is already aware of an escalating situation.
Question
Options:
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Answer
Option 1: Both Reuben and Jane undermined Ravi's dignity by humiliating him
during his presentations and failed to acknowledge his contributions. And Dave
objectified Julie rather than treating her as worthy of respect.
Option 2: This principle was violated by Reuben and Jane. They were discourteous
in not listening to Ravi when he was speaking. Also, Dave's inappropriate remarks to
Julie are clearly unwelcome to her, and his persistence shows a lack of respect for
her wishes.
Option 3: Reuben and Jane fail to identify with Ravi. If they had considered his point
of view, they would have behaved respectfully at the meetings. As well as that, Jane
clearly never asks herself how she would feel if her opinions were disparaged or she
was excluded in the workplace. Finally, if Dave considered Julie's perspective, he
would stop pursuing her against her wishes.
Option 5: This principle is violated when an employee knows what's was going on
and just lets it happen. Also, Ravi and Julie should have sought help. Ravi could have
discussed the situation with his manager. Obviously, Julie couldn't approach her own
manager, Dave, but she could have contacted HR or a different manager she felt
comfortable speaking with.
Correct answer(s):
Question
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Which two actions do you think would contribute to creating a respectful work
environment?
Options:
1. Raising your voice at a colleague who is late with a report you were waiting
on
2. Sending jokes by text message to a coworker who has asked you to stop
3. Speaking to a coworker about a racial slur you overheard her use in the
break room
4. Asking a colleague's opinion about a project you are working on
Answer
Option 2: This is the type of action that could create a disrespectful environment. If
your coworker has made it clear that these jokes are not wanted, you are being
disrespectful by continuing to send them.
Option 3: Taking this action would support a respectful environment. It's never a
good idea to ignore rude behavior if you become aware of it. Discussing the matter
privately with your coworker could help bring the importance of the situation to her
attention so she can avoid similar conduct in the future. Or, you could seek help from
your manager or HR if you are not comfortable confronting your coworker directly.
Option 4: This action shows respect. Asking a colleague's opinion acknowledges that
you value his insights and shows your respect for his viewpoint.
Correct answer(s):
3. Speaking to a coworker about a racial slur you overheard her use in the break
room
4. Asking a colleague's opinion about a project you are working on
4. Respecting differences
Sometimes superficial differences between people are used as an excuse for inappropriate
behavior.
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But there can be very deep cultural differences that should be respected.
For instance, Americans may perceive Asian workers as excessively subservient to their
bosses and lacking in initiative. By contrast, Asian workers may perceive American workers as
lacking deference and discipline.
This can occur because Americans typically have a more egalitarian attitude, but order and
hierarchy may be more highly valued by some Asian workers. Clearly it's important that the
core values are respected, or each will be making negative assumptions and reinforcing
stereotypes about the other. In a respectful workplace, differences between these values can
be stimulating, rather than threatening.
It's certainly more challenging to create cultural unity in a global, geographically diverse
organization. When interaction is limited to e-mails and the occasional conference call, there
can be more opportunities for cultural misunderstandings and stereotyping.
As an employee, it's up to you to recognize and value differences whether they are matters
of appearance, personality, or core values and work with your colleagues to support a culture
of unity that values diversity.
Question
Options:
Answer
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Correct answer(s):
Based on what you've learned about promoting respect in the workplace, which statements do
you think describe some of the potential benefits of a respectful workplace?
First, select each statement that you believe describes a potential benefit of a respectful
workplace to find out if you have identified all the benefits listed on this page. Then, after
you've finished, select any remaining statements to learn more about them.
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negative emotions, but colleagues will be more likely to deal with these issues in a
tactful and constructive way.
The benefits of working in a respectful environment are obvious and many. These are just
some of the potential benefits you may experience.
Graphic
6. Summary
To review, there are five basic principles you can apply every day to help make your workplace
a more respectful and collegial environment: acknowledge that your coworkers are valuable,
always be courteous in your communication with others, consider your coworkers'
perspectives, avoid behaviors that may be considered harassing or intimidating, and don't
ignore intimidating behavior.
Remember that a respectful workplace is better for you and your fellow workers, and that it
benefits your organization as a whole.
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Demonstrating Respect
Learning Objective
After completing this topic, you should be able to
choose to act respectfully when interacting with others
1. Introduction
Demonstrating Respect
Graphic
Host: Let's watch and see how Reuben interacts with Maria, a
colleague who works at the company's office in Mexico.
The host finishes speaking and a new scene begins.
Maria: What? I'm sorry I'm behind on things here, but there's
no reason to be rude.
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Maria: I don't think it's funny. Are you saying that because
I'm Mexican, I can't get anything done on time?
Maria is offended.
2. Avoiding stereotyping
In an effort to promote a respectful work environment, it's important for coworkers to overcome
any prejudices they may hold, including those they are not consciously aware of. Often,
prejudices are related to stereotyping based on an individual's cultural background or personal
characteristics.
Reuben's racial insinuations are not only unprofessional and disrespectful they could also be
illegal in many countries.
Question
Now imagine that Reuben, who is very upset about how the call with Maria ended,
comes to you for advice.
What might you suggest as some principles to guide his interactions with others?
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Options:
Answer
Option 1: Joking is a mechanism people often use to say things they really want to
say but know they shouldn't. Do your best to avoid this kind of joking, especially if it
relates to a personal characteristic such as age, sex, religion, or, like in Maria's case,
national origin.
Option 3: When Maria apologized for being late with her work, Reuben could have
acknowledged that and attempted to consider the situation from her perspective.
Correct answer(s):
Relying on prejudiced views and stereotypes may also lead to discriminatory behavior. Many
jurisdictions have enacted laws to prohibit discrimination and harassment in the workplace.
These laws typically focus on discrimination that is based on certain characteristics:
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age
sex (including sexual preference or transgender status)
race
national origin
religion
pregnancy
marital status, or
disability
Although the exact legal definitions can vary from place to place, this list provides some useful
guidance on the types of characteristics that can become the subject of stereotyping,
discrimination, and harassment. It's helpful to keep these categories in mind when reflecting on
your own behavior.
3. Positive respect
In addition to avoiding stereotypes, there are four positive general ways you can demonstrate
respect to your coworkers:
being courteous
being supportive
accepting coworkers for who they are, and
showing empathy
Supplement
Selecting the link title opens the resource in a new browser window.
Job Aid
Access the job aid Principles for Demonstrating Respect to help you practice
respect in the workplace.
Remember, there are two aspects to supporting your colleagues when they ask for feedback
on their work.
First, acknowledge whatever is done well. Even if you have a criticism, it is important to
acknowledge the positive.
Second, show respect by being honest. If you've been asked your opinion and you notice
something that could be improved, you can help them improve by bringing this up in a tactful
way. Just be sure to avoid any personal criticism.
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As we've discussed, respect means valuing others for who they are and being willing to
consider their unique perspectives. When you consider their perspective, you are able to
demonstrate respect by empathizing with them. Empathizing with coworkers is especially
important when they may be having difficulty completing work that you are waiting for.
In the earlier scene, Maria called Reuben to let him know the report he was waiting for wasn't
ready. He was more concerned with being funny than trying to find out what the delay might
be.
Had he done that, he would have learned that she had been tending to her sick father for the
last two days and was just now getting back to work.
Question
Options:
1. Lack of empathy
2. Stereotyping
3. Sexual harassment
Answer
Option 1: You can only empathize with people if you take some interest in what's
going on with them. Reuben should have taken an interest in whether Maria was
having a problem with gathering the data or why she was delayed. This might have
given him the opportunity to relate to her as a human being because he might have
found out about her personal circumstances.
Correct answer(s):
1. Lack of empathy
2. Stereotyping
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5. Summary
To act respectfully in the workplace, you should value individuals for who they are, be
courteous in all your communications, be supportive, show empathy especially when a
coworker is experiencing difficulties and avoid any form of stereotyping.
Your company's antiharassment policy is a valuable resource that contains the company's
expectations for employee behavior. It also includes guidance on reporting inappropriate
behavior and identifies where you can go with any questions or to discuss any concerns.
Please take a moment now to locate and review your company's antiharassment policy and
any other policy or resource that includes guidance on employee conduct in your workplace.
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