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Despite our differences as individuals, at our core we all want respect. In the workplace, respect begins the moment you walk into the office. As a leader, respect is shown through the attitude, approach and actions you take each hour of the work day.

So, what does respect in the workplace really mean? After surveying hundreds of people across all four of the generations we found that respect means different things to each of us.

Here are some ways we heard that respect can be demonstrated in the workplace:

- Respect means equality. Treat employees as equals and treat them professionally.

- Respect is the personal as well as the professional. Value employees as individuals. Respect their life circumstances outside of the office.

- Respect encompasses the entire company culture. Treat employees equally and fairly in every department of the organization. Create a culture of participation.

- Respect is reciprocal. Don’t assume that leaders deserve respect from their employees but not the other way around. Respect works both ways.

- Respect builds trust. Trust employees to do their job. Value their talents and need for autonomy.

- Respect involves recognition. Value your employees’ contributions. Give them the resources to do great work, and then show them they are appreciated.

- Respect means inclusion. Include employees in organizational strategies and meetings that may not be their exact area of expertise. Err on the side of being inclusive rather than exclusive.

- Respect yields openness to input. Don’t just encourage open communication. Utilize new ideas. Value employees suggestions and opinions.

- Respect results in empowerment. Give employees the support and resources to meet clearly defined expectations.

- Respect encourages professional growth. Appreciate your employees and continue to give them opportunities to advance in their career and personal development.

Lastly, be aware of the impact your attitude, approach and actions have on employees. As leaders, you have the power to energize employees with excitement and engagement by showing them the respect they want and deserve.