The Transformational Power of Respect

In his new book, The Respect Effect: Using the Science of Neuroleadership to Inspire a More Loyal and Productive Workplace, Paul Meshanko reveals the transformational power of respect in the workplace. Through a combination of unintentional or purposeful ignorance, at times we inadvertently treat others with disrespect. The resulting costs to organizations in litigation, low productivity, lack of employee engagement and trust in company leaders are staggering.

By examining the neurology of human interaction, Meshanko explains how each of our brains is profoundly influenced by how we’re treated by others. When we’re treated with respect, our brains literally light up and perform at their highest levels. When treated with disrespect, the higher thought processes in our brains go dormant. Hijacked by our primitive survival wiring, we become diminished assets to our employers and organizations.

The Respect Effect is a refreshing and powerful addition to the arsenal of tools organizational leaders need to successfully guide companies and manage change. When leaders are able to create work environments that consistently value, esteem and nurture employees, they increase employee engagement.

Simply stated, engaged employees become emotionally committed to the success of their organizations and are more likely to give their highest levels of performance.

In contrast, disrespectful work environments result in a marked decrease in production coupled with unhappy workers who show up merely to collect a paycheck. Meshanko makes a compelling case for the value of respect and why it’s important that the transition to a more civil work environment start with the company leader.

Through real-life examples and case studies (though, in some cases, the names have been changed to protect the guilty), Meshanko illustrates how respectful and disrespectful organizations function. The book has the bonus of providing information that’s not restricted to the workplace. The principles of respect apply to every facet of people’s lives and provide the rare opportunity to positively transform our culture.