The Evolution of Respect and Its Role in Leadership

Written By Brian King

*Originally published on LinkedIn, September 2, 2023

As I reflect on my journey through life, I can’t help but notice how my understanding of respect has evolved.

It began with the teachings of my father, who emphasised the importance of respecting our parents and elders. Back then, that made perfect sense. Respect was a value — clear, expected, and deeply ingrained.

But as I entered my teenage years, that definition started to shift. I began to question whether respect should be given automatically. I saw that elders were fallible. I watched people make mistakes, and it made me ask whether respect should be earned rather than assumed.

Now, as a man older than my father was when he first gave me those “life lessons,” I see things differently again. Today, I see respect as a gift. Not because someone demanded it or earned it, but because every individual, like me, deserves it.

Why This Matters in Leadership

This shift in how I understand respect has profoundly shaped the way I lead in the workplace, in the community, and at home.

It taught me that leadership isn’t about authority. It’s about how we treat people, especially when no one’s watching.

Here are five ways this evolution has reshaped how I lead:

  1. Leading by Example: Respect starts with what we model. It’s not enough to expect respect from others — we must demonstrate it through our words, actions, and choices.
    When we show up with respect, we set a standard that others instinctively mirror.

  2. Fostering Inclusivity: Respect unlocks inclusivity. When we embrace people from different backgrounds and perspectives without judgment, we create workplaces and communities where everyone feels valued and heard.
    That’s not just diversity — that’s respect in action.

  3. Building Trust: Trust is built on respect. And without trust, leadership becomes hollow.
    When people feel respected — regardless of their title, role, or experience — they’re far more likely to trust you, follow your lead, and contribute their best.

  4. Bridging Differences: In a complex, global world, leaders must bridge differences in culture, opinion, and experience.
    Offering unconditional respect — even when there’s disagreement — is often the first step to finding common ground.

  5. Inspiring Positive Change: Change rarely happens in environments where people feel disrespected or dismissed.

    When respect is woven into the culture, it becomes a catalyst for growth, innovation, and resilience.

Final Reflection

My understanding of respect has evolved from something expected, to something earned, to something I now give freely.

That shift has made me a better leader.

Because leadership isn’t about enforcing compliance — it’s about creating space for others to thrive. And that starts with respect.

Questions for Reflection

  • How has your view of respect changed over time?

  • Are there moments when you withheld respect, and what did it teach you?

  • In what areas of your leadership can you offer respect more freely?

Brian King