Creating a respectful work environment isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a critical driver of success. Respectful workplaces deliver results through collaboration, creativity, and trust—essential components for any thriving organization. However, many leaders overlook the power of respect in their daily management practices, focusing primarily on results. We’ve helped dozens of clients over more than two decades generate 40% gains in results and profits, driven entirely by 40% gains in both employee engagement and customer service.

Our research and experience have made one thing crystal clear: employees of all generations want—and deserve—a workplace where they are respected and validated for their aligned ideas, efforts, and contributions every day.

When employees experience respect and validation, they bring their best. They take the initiative, collaborate effortlessly, and go the extra mile for customers. They feel part of something bigger than themselves, something meaningful, which builds loyalty and retention.

When employees are ignored, undervalued, or disrespected, they disengage. They put in less effort, notice problems but don’t address them, and do the bare minimum. They’re inspired to look for ways out of the organization. Many choose to leave, while others may stick around but have mentally checked out.

Respected employees help grow your business. Disrespected employees have no real incentive to do that—so they don’t.

How can you sustain a culture of respect in your organization?

You can’t just tell staff, “Be respectful.” As senior leaders, you must define your respectful culture, model it, celebrate it, measure it, and ensure everyone is held accountable for it.

Start by defining what you want respect to look like in your workplace by formalizing observable, tangible, measurable behaviors that model respect.