Respect is the key behind high-performing teams, resilient cultures, and trusted leadership. In my years as CEO of Syms, the first truly off-price retail chain in America, I saw firsthand that when respect is missing, even the most talented teams are not as successful. But when it’s present — deeply embedded in the way people interact — companies thrive. Respect isn’t just a “nice to have” skill in business — it’s a strategic advantage.

Here are five ways leaders and teams can cultivate a culture of respect at work:

1) Listen with intention, not just to respond

Respect starts with listening. Too often in leadership, we listen to reply, not to understand. But people know the difference. When employees feel truly heard, they feel valued. This means putting away distractions, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting back what you’ve heard. I practiced this in hiring especially, carefully selecting candidates who I felt had done their homework, asking them my questions, and then requesting their own questions. I wanted to know they were invested and enthusiastic. Leaders who practice active listening create trust and encourage ideas that otherwise go unspoken.

 2) Lead by example, especially in tough moments

Culture flows from the top. If you want respect to permeate your workplace, model it yourself, consistently. That means showing appreciation for people’s time, being transparent even when the news is difficult, and owning your mistakes. Some of the most powerful leadership moments come when you admit you were wrong. It signals humility and integrity, which are core components of respect.

 3) Recognize contributions, not just results

It’s easy to praise a win. But respect is shown when you acknowledge the effort behind the scenes, the invisible labor that keeps teams moving forward. Whether it’s a thoughtful email, a last-minute pitch revision, or someone who helped a colleague succeed, recognition of contributions — big or small — signals that people matter beyond their output.

 4) Address disrespect immediately and thoughtfully

Letting disrespectful behavior slide sends a dangerous message: that it’s tolerated. But how you address it matters. Public shaming can be just as toxic. Instead, pull the person aside. Use clear, respectful language to name the behavior and explain its impact. Creating a culture of respect doesn’t mean avoiding conflict; it means handling it with dignity.

5) Create psychological safety for every voice

Respect isn’t just about politeness — it’s about power. Who feels safe speaking up? Who is included in key conversations? If you want a truly respectful culture, you must actively cultivate psychological safety. Encourage questions, dissenting views, and new perspectives. Celebrate not just the “loudest voice,” but also the quiet contributions that often go unnoticed.

Original Article: https://www.bizjournals.com/boston/bizwomen/news/profiles-strategies/2025/11/strategies-5-ways-to-cultivate-respect.html

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