Communication isn’t just talking – it’s about listening, as well. Incessant talking isn’t the mark of a respected person. Try to truly listen to others and be genuinely engaged so you become more trustworthy. [1] X Research source Take a moment to think before you speak.
Well-respected people know how to keep their cool under tense conditions. During arguments, hold your temper to prevent escalations, and if someone raises their voice at you, respond calmly. [2] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Conversely, slouching, mumbling and being afraid of eye contact communicates to others that you aren’t confident in yourself. Self-confidence is respected.
When others see you calmly find a solution to a problem rather than react angrily or emotionally, they will respect your composure and appreciate your readiness to remedy the situation.
Being poorly groomed usually sends a negative message to others about your self-worth. If you don’t respect yourself and your appearance, it will be very difficult to gain the respect of others.
The delivery of the message is just as important as the message itself. Be polite, frank, and decline with a smile. It’s not personal, you just don’t have the time to take on anything extra right now. Don’t feel guilty about saying no when you have to. Feel good about standing up for yourself. [5] X Research source
Avoid being passive-aggressive about your opinions. Be more direct with what your intentions and thoughts are. Just be mindful of other cultures’ boundaries. If you aren’t used to speaking up, try practicing what you want to say beforehand. Voicing your opinions doesn’t mean verbally passing judgment on everything going on around you. Voice your opinions when they matter.
Establish boundaries so others know what behavior is acceptable to you. Be assertive with your choices. [8] X Research source Being too nice can also have the undesired effect of people thinking you are fake and disingenuous.
Reserve your apologies for situations that actually call for them. Stop taking the blame for every little thing that goes wrong around you.
Standing up for yourself can be scary, but that’s precisely why other people will respect you for doing it. When you speak up, make sure you literally speak up – do not mumble, trip over your words, or look down at your feet in embarrassment. You have every right to stand up for yourself.
Be honest and tell the truth when you don’t know something.
When you show your peers that you respect their time by being prompt, they will respond by respecting your time and you.
You don’t have to like everyone, but you should always be respectful toward them. [11] X Research source Know the difference between socializing and gossiping, and never participate in the latter. Make an effort to avoid drama with your peers.
Pay attention to your surroundings and take opportunities to show empathy toward others when at all possible. When you are able to demonstrate that you are willing to offer help when it is needed, you’re demonstrating that you care about others, which never fails to gain respect. Reach out to others when you need help too. Asking another person will make them feel valued and shows that you think highly of them. It also shows that you have the courage to admit to your weaknesses.
