Easy ways to be respectful in the office

You don’t have to be the nicest person on the planet to be a good, respectful co-worker. Here are three subtle ways you can convey respect in the office…

Timely responses: Think about how you use your time. You probably have a schedule that is set up around your needs, but what about the people you work with. Does your schedule show respect for others? Checking your email 3 times a day may work well for you, but how is it affecting your coworkers? They may need you help with an issue, and a timely response from you may be just what they need to see that you respect them and the work that they’re doing every day.

Be insightful: If you have the ability to look ahead and see what needs to be done before it’s asked of anyone, take the initiative to do it. If you see a coworker is swamped on a day when you have a lighter load, ask them if they could use an extra pair of hands. Most people are willing to help when asked for it, but far less seek out ways to be helpful.

Get on board: We’ve all pitched ideas in meetings that have been quickly swatted down. Sometimes your pride can be a little hurt, but it’s important that you look at the big picture and move on. Once you’ve realized that another plan is a better plan (and even if you don’t ever realize that), it’s time that you not only go along with it, but you get on board and help get things done. Being a team player is a great way to show your squad that you respect the team and its ideas.