Working in an environment where there is an abundance of mutual respect for coworkers goes a long way towards breeding success. In fact, it is just as -- if not more -- important than the skill set of each worker. For instance, say you and your coworkers all possess ample talent for what you do, but none of you respect each other. You won't be nearly as productive as you could be, since working in an environment rife with gossip, backstabbing and even insulting behavior can become taxing over time. Thankfully, there are plenty of subtle ways to demonstrate respect to your coworkers and avoid these pitfalls.
Instructions
1 Make an effort to be friendly. This is an obvious gesture, but it sets a good tone. Plus, you'll diminish the chances of your coworkers making assumptions about you. For example, take the classic scenario where a shy person is mislabeled as a standoffish snob. Proactively go out of your way to greet everyone and be nice.
2 Avoid gossiping about each other. Even if the person you wish to talk about isn't present, there's a good chance that it can make its way back to her. Plus, if you do excessively indulge in gossip, there's the chance that the person you're talking to may quietly wonder if you talk about him when he's not around. The best route to take is to talk to the person directly if you're so inclined.
3 Pay attention to your body language when communicating with coworkers. Maintain eye contact and display a genuine interest in what the conversation is about, even if deep down inside you are indeed bored by the communique. Not only will this foster a mutual respect, it will also compel them to reciprocate when you have something you wish to say.
4 Pull your weight at work. If you regularly turn in sub-standard work with team projects or show up late to meetings, then you are sending a disrespectful message. You may think that your behavior has nothing to do with them and only how you yourself feel about your job. However, if they work hard to do a good job and you remain flippant, you negatively affect the whole team in regards to both performance and morale, and they see this.