opinion

What Does ‘Respect’ in the Workplace Mean to You?

What Does ‘Respect’ in the Workplace Mean to You?

Being able to speak up is a privilege that is not a reality for a lot of people. Many people have grown accustomed to the old adage of “speak only when spoken to,” or “only offer an opinion if it seems safe to do so and only if it was requested of me.” “Respect” is a pretty vague word that has a lot of different meanings to different people. Some demand respect, which to others might mean that that person will never get it — because it has to be earned. According to its proper definition, respect not only means, “an admiration for someone based on a result of their abilities, qualities or achievements,” but it also includes “due regard for one’s feelings, wishes, rights or traditions.” That means to accept someone as they are, without wanting or trying to change them in any way whatsoever. It’s unconditional acceptance of and belief in honoring the truth in someone’s perspective … solely because it’s their opinion.

To forcefully demand respect from someone is to attempt to control how one perceives another. There is no respect in demanding to be respected. The definition of the word itself clarifies that. One can refuse to engage with someone being disrespectful, but demanding respect often has the opposite effect on people.

Honor the ability of everyone on your team to contribute by recognizing them and giving them the floor, and then listen to their contributions.

As we move into a more integrated world-view, it seems most appropriate to reconsider how we treat each other. Rather than trying to intimidate someone into giving (your definition of) respect, consider other people’s boundaries, reflection and personal respect. Honor the ability of everyone on your team to contribute by recognizing them and giving them the floor, and then listen to their contributions.

Often in the workplace, “respect” is viewed as a synonym for “compliance.” Doing what someone says out of respect for them has a completely different feel than doing something for someone because they demand it. Control and fear can make people a little hesitant to offer an unsolicited opinion at an office meeting.

Just because someone isn’t responding right away does not suggest they have nothing worthwhile to say. It could mean they don’t feel they have enough information yet to contribute. It might mean they were taught their opinion wasn’t reflective for the whole to hear. It could also mean that they find it disrespectful to offer advice without being deliberately and specifically asked. They might’ve been taught that doing so is undermining to the local leadership and is to be avoided at all costs, regardless of their personal opinion on the matter.

There are many possible cultural and individual reasons why people respond and interact in the ways in which they do. It’s best to not make assumptions about anyone … not about their preferences, how they identify with their surroundings, or even how they wish to be treated.

I was taught “the Golden Rule.” It basically means to treat someone as you wish to be treated — but as a friend and colleague recently pointed out, it’s better to treat people how they wish to be treated. For example, let’s say you were taught it was honorable and socially appropriate to address someone by “sir” or “ma’am,” and so you do. What if that person wasn’t raised with the same social niceties as you were? Suppose that to them, being labelled with one of those terms is offensive? What if they feel you are profiling them? It’s possible too that you may be mis-gendering them because you made an assumption based on the expected norms you were taught, but that are inaccurate and your politeness isn’t received politely?

The more we are willing to acknowledge others beyond ourselves, the more we are able to see the very attributes that solidify our inclusivity in the workplace. And who wouldn’t want to belong and be seen as who they truly are?

Dr. Lee-Anne Francois-Dornbusch is a transformation and integration specialist. She hosts the podcast "Naturopathic Life and Living."

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

profile

Cat Meyer Reflects on Goals, Triumphs of Indie Lube Brand Head South

“I loved the storytelling aspect — how products weren’t just about hair but confidence, self-expression and identity,” she says. Today, she uses the same skills as the CEO and owner of Head South, a sexual wellness brand that focuses on minimalism through its design, messaging and refillable packaging.

Nishka Dhawan ·
opinion

Rebranding Sexual Wellness Through a Self-Care Approach

As most of us in the industry already know, sexual wellness remains the black sheep of self-care. Discussions about wellness glorify meditation apps, skincare routines and workout regimens — but mention masturbation or using a sex toy, and most people shy away from the topic.

Hail Groo ·
opinion

Why Sex Toy Innovation Isn't What Shoppers Want Right Now

During my first year in the industry, the luxury vibrator on shelves was LELO’s Gigi, priced at $109. It was made with high-quality silicone, boasted an ergonomic design, a travel lock and a warranty. Soon after, Je Joue released its first product, SaSi, which employed “rolling ball” movements to simulate oral sex.

Sarah Tomchesson ·
opinion

How Adult Retailers Can Enhance Sales With Supplements

The supplement industry is big business. In 2024, Future Market Insights estimated it to be valued at $74.3 billion, and other market research firms anticipate that number will grow to upwards of $170 billion in just 10 years.

Rick Magana ·
opinion

Why It's Time the Pleasure Industry Got Serious About IPX Waterproof Ratings

As someone who regularly communicates with manufacturers, retailers and consumers, I’ve seen how this ambiguity can do a disservice to both the customers who use these products and the businesses that sell them.

Alicia Sinclair Rosen ·
opinion

Tips for Sexual Wellness Brands to Win Over Gen Z This Summer

As summer rolls around, the excitement in the air is palpable, especially for one particular demographic: Gen Z. College and university classes are over, vacations are booked and it’s time to let loose.

Naima Karp ·
opinion

Celebrating the LGBTQ+ Community With Inclusive Packaging Design

Pride Month is a time of visibility, joy and self-expression. In the pleasure industry, projecting that energy can start with something as simple as a box. Market research shows that 72% of U.S. consumers say product packaging influences their purchasing decisions.

Matthew Spindler ·
profile

WIA Profile: Pettus Ashley

Pettus Ashley brings her A game to the world of authentic adult branding, flitting between airports as the American face of U.K. brand Bathmate. As a company brand ambassador, Ashley personifies Bathmate’s dedication to the retail world, showering staff with equal amounts of appreciation and sales education.

Women In Adult ·
profile

Good Relations Fosters Sex Wellness, Positivity for 40+ Years

Melinda Myers, the founder and owner of Good Relations in Eureka, California, was still in college when she got invited to attend her first pleasure products home party.

Quinton Bellamie ·
opinion

Why It's Time for Pleasure Brands to Stop Ignoring B2C Marketing

For many B2B adult brands, marketing to consumers feels like a waste of time. I’ve heard it so many times: “We sell to retailers, not consumers. Why should we invest in B2C marketing?”

Hail Groo ·
Show More