Respect 2.0: We Found Out What It Really Means to Employees

In today’s workplaces, respect is not just a “nice-to-have” value; it’s the cornerstone of thriving organizational cultures, effective leadership, and employee engagement. But what does respect truly mean to employees, and how can leaders bring it to life? Through years of research and conversations with leaders, I’ve uncovered an essential truth from an employee perspective: respect simply means that employees feel Seen, Heard, and Valued.

These three simple yet profound concepts form the bedrock of employee satisfaction and performance. 

Respect Magically Powers Employee Experience

Respect isn’t just about what leaders give; it’s about creating a culture where respect flows in every direction—between every part of your cultural ecosystem: employees, leaders, customers, clients & patients, and suppliers. 

Employees don’t ask for perfection when it comes to respect. Instead, they ask for intentional actions that make them feel valued. The research is definitive: when leaders prioritize respect, the ripple effects extend beyond individual interactions. When respect is present in the workplace, positive things happen:

• Employees are more likely to trust one another and their leader.
• Employees are less likely to leave the organization voluntarily, seeking greener pastures elsewhere.
• Employees feel included, regardless of their socially meaningful differences.
• Employee perceptions of the overall culture are positive.
• There are fewer reports of harassing and discriminatory behavior.
• Customer experience is more positive.

Why Respect Matters More Than Ever

In our polarized and fast-paced world, we often overlook respect, yet it is the secret ingredient for impactful leadership. Organizations that commit to embedding respect into their DNA will attract and retain top talent, foster innovation, and build sustainable success.

The next time you walk into your workplace, ask yourself: are you giving respect as freely as you expect it? The answer to that question could transform your team’s morale and your organization’s future. Most importantly, it will transform you into a more effective leader and colleague.

Let’s make respect the default, not the exception. Because when we get respect right, everything else falls into place.

© 2024-2025. Gena Cox, Ph.D.