Page 230 - Build a Culture of Employee Engagement with the Principles

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Implementing
CHA P T E R 12

the RESPECT

Model

When we show our respect for other living
things, they respond with respect for us.
—Arapaho proverb

hile introducing Vince Lombardi prior to
his receiving Fordham University’s Insig-
ni
Ws Medal, Red Blaik said of his friend, “He
believes strongly that respect is the essential ingredient that
cements successful human relations.” Great leaders like Lom-
bardi have always understood that respect is a two-way street
and that people follow leaders whom they respect and by whom
they feel respected. If you look at any list of great leaders, you
will find that most come from the fields of religion, politics, the
military, and sports; very few come from business. This relative
dearth exists, I believe, because most business leaders fail to
appreciate the importance of creating loyal followers. The most
educated, hardworking, experienced, and brilliant leaders will