About this Alpha Micro
Respect at work isn't just about policies or legislation. It's about the everyday behaviours that shape how people experience their workplace.
In this Alpha Micro, you'll learn to recognise respectful and inappropriate workplace behaviour, understand the part each of us plays, and identify practical ways to respond.
RESPECT AT WORK
What does respect at work actually look like?
Respect at work isn't about everyone agreeing with each other or avoiding difficult conversations.
It's about how we behave while we work together — particularly when we're under pressure, disagree, make mistakes or need to challenge something.
A respectful workplace is one where people can:
SPEAK UP
Raise concerns, ask questions and share a different view without fear of being dismissed or punished.
BE HEARD
Have your views listened to and considered, even when others disagree.
BE TREATED FAIRLY
Experience consistent standards of behaviour, dignity and professionalism.
PUT INTO PRACTICE
What would you do?
During a team meeting, Sam raises a concern about how a new process is affecting their workload. Their colleague responds, “Here we go again. You complain about everything,” and several people laugh. The manager says nothing and moves the meeting on.
Which response best supports a respectful workplace?
A — Ignore it and move on
The comment was probably meant as a joke, and continuing the meeting avoids making things uncomfortable.
NOT QUITE
Ignoring the comment allows dismissive behaviour to go unchallenged.
A respectful response addresses the comment and gives Sam the opportunity to be heard.
B — Address the comment and return to Sam’s concern
Acknowledge that dismissive comments aren’t helpful, then give Sam the opportunity to explain their concern.
GOOD CHOICE
Addressing the dismissive comment in the moment sets a clear standard for respectful behaviour.
Returning to Sam’s concern also shows that speaking up will be heard and taken seriously.
C — Speak to Sam privately after the meeting
Avoid addressing it in front of the team, but check with Sam later to see whether they are okay.
NOT QUITE
Speaking with Sam afterwards shows concern, but it leaves the dismissive behaviour unchallenged in front of the team.
Addressing it in the moment reinforces the standard for everyone and supports Sam to continue speaking up.