A New Kind of Respect for 2009
ningcontentA lot of people are making resolutions for the new year like getting into shape, getting out of debt and becoming better people. One way we can all become better is by respecting each other more, and more often. In her article for Respectful Workplace, “R-E-S-P-E-C-T,” Ruth Ramos introduces a new way to show respect for others called the Platinum Rule. Unlike the Golden Rule that says, “treat others the way you want to be treated,” the Platinum Rule says, “treat others the way they want to be treated.” Be aware of cultural differences among employees in the workplace. Some cultures, Ramos points out, believe it is disrespectful to make eye contact while speaking, and others believe it is respectful to greet someone with a kiss on the cheek(s).
The Platinum Rule becomes increasingly relevant as workplaces become more diverse. Recent college graduates starting new entry level jobs and college students beginning new internships can both benefit and learn from employers practicing the Platinum Rule. Or they could be the ones to introduce a new trend that would make their workplaces more pleasant.
“In order to really implement [the Platinum Rule],” Ramos says, “you must have a conversation with the person(s) you interact with about what respect is to them. Understanding what respect means to [others] requires getting to know them well enough to understand their culture[s], life experience[s], and perspective[s].”
