As Aretha would say:
“R – E – S – P – E – C – T
Find out what it means to me.”
Here in South Florida, due to the constant heat and humidity, the garbage is picked up twice a week, on Tuesday and Friday. From my office window, I can see when the garbage truck stops in front of the property. I always turn my chair to watch.
The garbage collector is one of the people and jobs I admire most! First of all, somebody’s got to do it! Garbage collection is a necessary service to modern society. I have always admired the people who actually come around on the trucks to collect the garbage each week, in all kinds of weather, since I was a child. I was fascinated with those big trucks and how the men could make bags of garbage just disappear in seconds! But now, as an adult, my admiration goes beyond that. What I have learned over the years is that anyone, in any job, with the right attitude can excel, find satisfaction and contribute to the community.
We are so caught up in our world and everything we have to face on a daily basis in business, that sometimes we forget about the word, respect. And let me add a second word, recognition.
In leading a company, there is always talk about bringing the team together. Working with employees for the greater good. All excellent goals.
But from the outside looking in, it appears many times to be just conversation. We’re not respecting (and recognizing) the people around us – employees, vendors, customers or clients. How in the world can we ever accomplish what we want to accomplish if we don’t bring the people around us with us?
Respect in business is highly important to the success of your company.
Think about it. How would you feel if you were on the other side of the conversation? If you were the one not being respected or your work wasn’t appreciated? Would you have great performance or would you do the minimal of what was absolutely necessary to get by?
We’ve been going through this difficult, uncertain business environment for several years now. As much as I don’t like to say this, it appears there are many years to go before the economy fully turns around. That said, don’t let the current business conditions turn you into an unfeeling CEO, president or business owner who doesn’t understand the needs of the people working with you and for you.
Let’s start to make the world a better place by appreciating everything around us. Starting individually in our own offices and companies. Respect and recognize all the hard work your employees do. When vendors go the extra step or two to help you. And when customers or clients buy from you – whether it’s the first time or it’s “too many times to count”.
What will be the outcome? What results will you get?
A happier workplace. Less stress. More satisfaction for everyone.
Oh, yes, significantly increased profits.