Respect isn’t given; it’s earned.
You want respect? You need to work for it. These 16 behaviours will help you gain this level of reverence from everyone around you. They’re not always easy, but they’re effective.
1. Admit when you’re wrong.
When you make a mistake, own it immediately. Don’t make excuses or try to explain it away. Say “I was wrong” and then outline how you’ll fix the problem. People respect those who can admit their faults without hemming and hawing. It shows integrity and self-awareness, two qualities that command respect.
2. Arrive five minutes early.
Consistently showing up early demonstrates that you value people’s time. It also gives you a moment to compose yourself before meetings or events. This small habit sets you apart from the chronically late and shows reliability. People notice and appreciate punctuality more than you might think.
3. Ask thoughtful questions.
Instead of nodding along in conversations, engage by asking insightful questions. This shows you’re actively listening and interested in learning more. It also demonstrates intellectual curiosity and depth. People respect those who can dive below surface-level chatter and explore ideas more thoroughly.
4. Maintain eye contact.
Look people in the eye when you’re speaking to them. It shows confidence and engagement. Don’t stare unnervingly, but hold eye contact for a few seconds at a time. This simple act makes people feel heard and respected, and they’ll return that respect to you.
5. Speak less, listen more.
Resist the urge to dominate conversations. Instead, focus on truly listening to what people are saying. When you do speak, make it count. People respect those who can listen attentively and respond thoughtfully, rather than those who talk endlessly about themselves.
6. Remember names and details.
Make an effort to remember people’s names and small details about their lives. Use their name in conversation and follow up on things they’ve mentioned before. This shows you value them as individuals. People respect those who make the effort to truly see them.
7. Admit when you don’t know something.
Don’t bluff your way through topics you’re unfamiliar with. Instead, admit your lack of knowledge and ask to learn more. This honesty is refreshing and shows humility. People respect those who are secure enough to admit gaps in their knowledge.
8. Follow through on commitments.
Source: Unsplash If you say you’ll do something, do it. No excuses. This reliability builds trust and respect. People appreciate those they can count on, whether it’s for small favours or major projects. Consistently following through sets you apart from the crowd.
9. Speak up against injustice.
Source: Unsplash When you see something wrong, say something. Stand up for people, even when it’s uncomfortable. This moral courage earns deep respect. People admire those who are willing to put themselves on the line for what’s right.
10. Give credit where it’s due.
Source: Unsplash Acknowledge people’s contributions and ideas. Don’t try to claim credit for work that isn’t yours. This generosity shows confidence and fairness. People respect those who can shine the spotlight on their colleagues rather than always hogging it for themselves.
11. Control your reactions.
Source: Unsplash When faced with stress or conflict, stay calm. Don’t lash out or lose your cool. This emotional control demonstrates maturity and strength. People respect those who can maintain composure under pressure.
12. Be consistently kind.
Treat everyone with kindness, regardless of their status or what they can do for you. This genuine warmth stands out in a world that can be cold and transactional. People respect those who are authentically kind to everyone they encounter.
13. Take responsibility for your team.
Source: Unsplash If you’re in a leadership position, take responsibility for your team’s failures as well as successes. Don’t throw people under the bus. This loyalty and accountability earn respect from both superiors and subordinates.
14. Apologise sincerely.
Source: Unsplash When you’ve wronged someone, say you’re sorry and mean it. No half-hearted “sorry if you were offended” nonsense. A sincere apology shows emotional intelligence and strength of character. People respect those who can humble themselves and make amends.
15. Maintain your boundaries.
Source: Unsplash Know your limits and stick to them. Don’t let people walk all over you in an attempt to be nice. This self-respect is essential for earning respect from people. People admire those who can firmly but politely maintain their boundaries.
16. Continuously improve yourself.
Source: Unsplash Always be learning and growing. Take on new challenges and develop new skills. This commitment to self-improvement shows ambition and humility. People respect those who are constantly striving to be better versions of themselves.
