“I get no respect!” The words made famous by actor Rodney Dangerfield beg to ask the question, “Do you have the respect of your nursing co-workers”? We all want the respect of our co-workers, but it doesn’t come automatically, no matter what your position is or how many initials you have after your name. Respect is not a right; it is an earned privilege that can be broken in an instant with a bad choice. We all have a horror story about co-workers that we, ourselves, don’t respect, and people will be quick to tell you why they do not respect others.
Today, let’s shift the focus to what we can do to earn more respect in the workplace:
1. Mean what you say: Promise very rarely, but deliver on every promise. Be very, very certain you can provide before you make the promise, otherwise say, “I’ll try.
2. Say what you mean: Because things can be easily misunderstood, speak clearly and concisely. Make certain you are understood by asking the recipient to paraphrase back what they heard.
3. Don’t be condescending: No one likes to be treated like they are stupid. It’s not so much our words, but sometimes our tone and body language that leaves something to be desired, especially when we are in a hurry.
4. Praise good work sincerely and validate others: Recognize everyone has something to offer: the housekeeper who has the opportunity to comfort a bereaved family member while you are busy making the necessary calls; the ward clerk who makes your job easier; the nurse’s aid who takes the time to fix someone hair and give them a real ‘lift.’ It is our job as leaders to help bring out the best in others, even it’s not obvious to all. Try to notice little things done well and mention them.
5. Don’t know everything!: Ask for advice, input, suggestions. If you already knew the answer to the question, resist the temptation to say so, and say "thank you". If someone offers a great idea, don’t "one up it”, let them own it and take pride in it.
6. Honesty matters, always: If you made a mistake, admit it, if you aren’t certain, say so, if you need help, ask for it. Always discipline privately, not in front of others. Don’t talk about anyone behind their back, ever. Make it a personal law.
7. Increase your competence: Subscribe to lifelong learning and continuing growth, and develop yourself personally & professionally. Freely share with others who are interested, encourage others, and be open to change.
We cannot demand respect, we cannot force respect. The bottom line is ground your actions from a place of integrity. Do the right thing. If you always come from a place of integrity, your nursing co-workers may not always agree with you, they may not always like you, you may not always be right, but you will have the peace of mind that comes from trying your best and making the best decision you could at the time with the information you had available.
Nurses, please leave a comment below sharing your thoughts! About the Author: Stephanie Staples is a personal growth & wellness speaker, nurse, and coach who helps healthcare professionals live their lives to the fullest! Email her for a complimentary Quality of Life Assessment.
