10 Recommendations to Build a Culture of Respect

   Dushaw Hockett

BE4ALL (Belonging and Excellence for All) launched in December 2021. The initiative, known as Culture of Respect today, envisions a diverse, inclusive and unionized sheet metal industry that is welcoming and fosters belonging for all. This work includes a human side — where individuals take pride in the work they do and value their contributions. It also includes a business side, where workers and contractors work together to achieve the highest standards of performance and excellence in their technical skills and crafts. When SMACNA, SMART and ITI (International Training Institute) launched Culture of Respect, they wanted the effort to be more than just words on a piece of paper. It was important that the initiative be backed by research and best practices.

Feeling respected and valued at work not only boosts morale, but also creates a trusting and productive work environment. Below are 10 recommendations to build a culture of respect in your workplace.

1. Ensure that everyone feels heard
   Ask your colleagues and employees for their opinions and suggestions. Make sure everyone has an opportunity to share. Don’t just listen; engage and be open to ideas that differ from your own.
2. Balance getting results with a concern for others
   When employees feel that results are more important to their company than the people who work there, they will not feel valued or respected.
3. Model empathy
   Build empathy in the workplace by learning about each other on a personal level. Start a meeting with an exercise to find commonalities — a favorite book, movie or food. Encourage everyone to listen and learn from each other.
4. Instill the skill of perspective-taking
   Invite people to put themselves in the shoes of another by listening to, understanding and respecting viewpoints and perspectives that differ from their own.
5. Value diversity
   Make it clear that differences are valued to establish a groundwork of respect in the workplace.
6. 

    

   Resolve conflicts
   Conflicts cause tension and division in the workplace. Effective leaders willingly and quickly mend conflicts and ensure everyone involved feels heard and understood.
7. Check in regularly
   Demonstrate that you care for your colleagues and employees by checking in to ask how they are. Commit to supporting them when needed.
8. Practice daily affirmations
   Get into the habit of thanking and giving praise to your colleagues and employees for their hard work.
9. Communicate effectively
   Talk with others and learn about them and their perspectives. Set a tone of respect and professionalism.
10. Lead by example
    Whether you are a longtime leader in the workplace or just starting your first day, embody the values you want to see around you. 

For Culture of Respect Toolbox Talks, visit www.smacna.org.