Why Respecting Everyone at Work Matters: Lessons from My First Job
- hemander linkcvright
- Dec 10, 2025
- 3 min read
Starting your first job is always a mix of excitement, nerves, and curiosity. For me, one of the most important lessons didn’t come from a manager or mentor—it came from the people I often overlooked: the cleaning staff.
What Happened
On my first job, I had a habit of arriving early. The office was quiet, most people hadn’t arrived yet, and the hallway was still being tidied up by the cleaning staff.
Most of my colleagues would pass them without a word. They were invisible to many, just part of the background of the office.
One morning, I decided to do something simple. I stopped and said, “Good morning. How are you doing today?”
The cleaning staff looked a little surprised. Then they smiled. That small moment of connection felt surprisingly meaningful—and it stuck with me.
The Key Message: Respect Has Nothing to Do with Job Titles
That interaction taught me a lesson I’ve carried through my entire career:
Respect is universal. It doesn’t matter if someone is a CEO, an intern, or part of the cleaning team. Everyone deserves to feel seen.
Every job matters. The work people do, no matter how big or small it seems, contributes to the success of the organization.
Professionalism starts with kindness. True professionalism isn’t just about hitting deadlines or writing perfect CVs—it’s about how you treat people, especially when they can’t offer you anything in return.
Years later, in every workplace I’ve been in, this simple principle has guided me. Treating everyone with respect isn’t just morally right—it’s a career strategy. People remember kindness, and those relationships often open doors in ways a resume or LinkedIn profile can’t.
Actionable Takeaways: How to Practice Respect in Your Career
Here are some practical ways you can bring this lesson into your own professional life:
Greet everyone you meet. From the receptionist to the office cleaner, a simple “Good morning” or “How are you today?” can make someone’s day.
Acknowledge contributions. Notice and appreciate the work others do, even if it’s behind the scenes.
Listen actively. Give your full attention when someone is speaking to you. Respect isn’t just about words—it’s about presence.
Avoid assumptions based on job titles. Every role adds value. Treat everyone as a valuable part of the team.
Lead by example. Whether you’re in a management position or just starting out, showing respect sets the standard for others.
Why This Matters for Career Growth
Treating people well isn’t just about being “nice.” It impacts your professional reputation and growth in several ways:
Networking opportunities: People remember kindness and are more willing to help you in the future.
Team collaboration: Respect fosters trust and better communication, making projects smoother.
Personal fulfillment: A respectful workplace feels better to work in, reducing stress and improving morale.
Long-term success: Professionals who respect others are often seen as leaders, regardless of their title.
Even in CV writing and LinkedIn profile optimization, these soft skills matter. Employers aren’t just looking for technical skills—they want team players who can create a positive work environment. Demonstrating professionalism and respect can give you an edge in interviews, networking, and career advancement.
Conclusion
Sometimes, the simplest lessons in life have the biggest impact. Saying “good morning” to the cleaning staff taught me that respect has nothing to do with job titles—it’s about recognizing the humanity in everyone around us.
As you build your career, remember: professionalism starts with how you treat others. A little kindness goes a long way, and it might just be the thing that defines your reputation and opens doors you never expected.
Respect everyone. Value their work. Carry that lesson with you, and you’ll not only grow professionally but also become the kind of person others want to work with.
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