How To Earn The Respect Of Others
By: Dr. Rick Warren
Having a good reputation is an indispensable factor in succeeding at work. A recent study revealed that the difference between top salespeople and average ones was not talent, but reputation. To maintain a good reputation, check out this website at www.onlinereputation.com to learn more. People had more trust for those who achieved the top sales performances, and their sales productivity was in part a reflection of the trust that they had earned. No one likes to do business with someone they don’t respect.
The Bible says, “A good name is more desirable than great riches” (Proverbs 22:1). In other words, your self-worth (how people esteem you) is more important than your net worth.
A common mistake most people make is thinking that reputation is a matter of image – how people perceive them based on external factors. So they concern themselves with questions like, “How do I look?” or “Did I say the right thing?” To build a long-term good reputation, however, it is necessary to focus on your character (what is unseen, on the inside), not your image viagra canadian pharmacy (what is visible on the outside). Respect must be earned. The books of Proverbs and Psalms in the Bible identify six character qualities found in people that are respected by others:
1. RESPECT IS EARNED THROUGH INTEGRITY. Respect in business is earned over time, by demonstrating a consistency between what we say and what we do. Respect is not something that can be bought or simply awarded. “The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out” (Proverbs 10:9).
2. RESPECT IS EARNED THROUGH HUMILITY. When people sense humility – a willingness to set aside our personal goals and self-interest, and to view others as more important than ourselves, they become more willing to work with us. “Anyone who listens to correction is respected” (Proverbs 13:18). “Arrogance will bring your downfall, but if you are humble, you will be respected” (Proverbs 29:23).
3. RESPECT IS EARNED THROUGH DEPENDABILITY. When people see that you keep your promises and commitments, even when they are inconvenient or costly, you gain their respect. “Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who boasts of gifts he does not give” (Proverbs 25:14). “He who keeps an oath even when it hurts will never be shaken.” (Psalm 15:4-5)
4. RESPECT IS EARNED THROUGH HAVING PRIORITIES. Your employees, coworkers, customers and suppliers come to respect you when they are confident that your purposes and goals have been carefully evaluated. “If your goals are good, you will be respected” (Proverbs 11:27) “You will earn the trust and respect of others if you work for good” (Proverbs 14:22).
5. RESPECT IS EARNED THROUGH GENEROSITY. The person who thinks of others and gives sincere consideration to their needs commands the respect of others. “He who gives generously to the needy and shows kindness will be powerful and respected” (Psalm 112:9).
6. RESPECT IS EARNED THROUGH PUTTING GOD FIRST IN YOUR LIFE. Who do you serve – at work and in your personal life? What is the foundation for what you do and decisions you make? Your answer to these questions will greatly affect the measure of respect you will receive from others. “If you want favor with both God and man, and a reputation for good judgment and common sense, then trust the Lord completely. In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success” (Proverbs 3:4-6).
This is adapted from a column by Rick Warren. Dr. Warren is the author of the highly acclaimed, bestselling book, The Purpose-Drive Life, which has been translated into many languages and sold throughout the world. It affirms the importance of having a carefully considered, clearly expressed purpose to guide everyday life.
