She added, “More than that, it is a critical relationship in the workplace built on mutual trust and respect where the employee feels comfortable demonstrating transparency, courage and humility.”
Why is a good working relationship based on mutual respect so important?
Respectful relationships generally advance open, honest and clear communication, said Rue Dooley, HR knowledge advisor with the Society for Human Resource Management (shrm.org) in Alexandria, Virginia.
“When people, managers or not, feel respected, they are, in my experience, much less likely to be silent about matters of significance and more likely to express their ideas and concerns freely, resulting in more effective collaboration,” Dooley said.
“Managing up refers to a tried and proven workplace behavior.” (iStock / iStock)
“Respect is fundamental to building trust and trust is crucial in all healthy relationships, maybe even a working relationship, especially,” he said.
Furthermore, when people respect each other, they’re less likely to have visceral disagreements — and more likely to approach reconciliation with a mindset toward compromise rather than escalating tensions, he noted.
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“Basic respect is the foundation of a collaborative environment,” Dooley said.
What’s the difference between sucking up and managing up?
Sucking up has negative connotations, said Dooley.
In contrast, he said, “managing up refers to a tried and proven workplace behavior with different roots and fruits.”
“Managing up is showing up and supporting your manager with honest feedback to help accomplish the best outcome for the organization.”
