1. By David Kiger

2.  Most employees show respect to their bosses
simply because they are in a position of power.
When business leaders earn the respect of their
employees, however, they can create a much
more productive and collaborative work
environment. Respect largely comes from
employee engagement. Thus, business leaders
should seek out information and input from their
employees whenever possible. Doing so makes
employees trust their bosses and feel heard.
Communication is another key to earning
respect. Bosses should respond to employees
promptly and make them feel like a priority.

3.  Furthermore, leaders need to listen to
employees’ concerns with empathy and respond
in a way that demonstrates an understanding of
the problem. Too often, leaders simply wait their
turn to speak, without engaging the employee
with authentic eye contact and receptive body
language.
Respect also comes from accountability. Bosses
need to provide constructive criticism and helpful
feedback to ensure that all employees operate up
to par. Failure to hold individuals accountable for
their performance sends the wrong message.