Page 2 - The Leadership Line: March 2021

Manager’s Guidance:

How to model respect within our teams

I respect my colleagues.

» I respect my colleagues who differ by gender, race, religion, culture, national origin, mental and
physical abilities, and will interact with them under the highest standards of professional conduct.

» I understand that every member of the MIL family makes important contributions, regardless of job,
role, or title.
» I recognize and celebrate our diverse community and will work to broaden my knowledge of the
cultures that represent the MIL family.
» I know that MIL empathizes with all people - empathy is the root of kindness, compassion, under-
standing, and respect.

Here are some ways you can create a respectful environment for your team:

I respect my colleagues who differ by gender, race, I understand that every member of the MIL family makes
religion, culture, national origin, mental and physical important contributions, regardless of job, role, or title.
abilities, and will interact with them under the highest
standards of professional conduct. Treat all your team members equally whether they are
the most junior team member or your right-hand per-
In a team meeting, listen and encourage all opinions. son. Do you know that the person who knows the least
Seek out opinions from those that might not get a about a process often has exceptional insight because he
chance to speak up. Some confident team members or she isn’t in the trenches of the process which some-
will unconsciously dominate a meeting. Make space times causes us to put blinders on?
for everyone to contribute. If a team member is often
silent in meetings, try asking for his or her input later Show respect through feedback. Feedback is an excel-
in a one-on-one conversation or through email. Respect lent opportunity to show employees they’re valued for
each team member by allowing them to contribute in their strengths and to offer supportive guidance to help
the way most comfortable for themselves. them grow. Positive feedback should outweigh con-
structive feedback by 8 to 1. Take every opportunity to
point out what your team member is doing well. Rec-
ognize and encourage positive behaviors. “Catch” them
doing something right. Be their cheerleader and support
system.