Leading with Courtesy
Building a Workplace Culture of Respect
September marks National Courtesy Month, a timely reminder that the simplest gestures of respect can create extraordinary change in our workplaces. Courtesy is more than a polite “please” or “thank you.” It’s an intentional way of showing that every person’s time, perspective, and contribution matters.
When we actively practice courtesy, we build a culture where people feel valued, heard, and motivated to give their best. Here are five ways to enhance workplace culture through everyday courtesy:
1. Practice Active Listening
Courtesy begins with listening. Put down your phone, close your laptop, and give your full attention when someone speaks. This small act signals that their ideas and presence are important—and it strengthens trust across the team.
2. Express Appreciation Regularly
Gratitude is powerful. Take time to thank colleagues for their efforts, whether in a quick email, a team meeting, or a handwritten note. Recognizing contributions boosts morale and reinforces positive behaviors.
3. Communicate with Clarity and Kindness
Whether you’re delivering feedback or sharing updates, choose words that are constructive and respectful. Clear, kind communication helps prevent misunderstandings and fosters a collaborative environment.
4. Respect Time—Yours and Others’
Show respect by being punctual to meetings, responding to messages promptly, and honoring deadlines. Time is one of the most valuable resources in the workplace, and courtesy means valuing it for everyone.
5. Give Grace and Assume Positive Intent
Challenges and missteps are inevitable. Offering grace—by assuming good intentions and seeking solutions instead of blame—builds resilience and unity within teams.
Why Courtesy Matters
Courtesy is not just about niceties—it’s the foundation of psychological safety, where people feel free to share ideas, take risks, and grow. A culture of respect and empathy fuels creativity, reduces stress, and drives sustainable success.
Let’s make courtesy more than a monthly observance. Let’s make it a daily practice that shapes the way we lead, collaborate, and inspire.
How will you show courtesy today?