How do you build respect in the workplace?
Stanford MBA alumni are known for their ability to command respect. They have held some of the most notable positions in business such as the CEO of GM, Chairman of Charles Schwab, CEO of Time Warner, CEO of Nike, and Co-founder of Sun Microsystems.
Your approach to building respect speaks directly to your ability to lead. Your interviewer wants to know if you have what it takes to stand alongside the talented leaders the Stanford GSB MBA program is known for helping to develop.
Describe a few of the methods you use to build respect. Your interviewer knows that a one-size fits all approach is unlikely to be successful at the enterprise level, so be sure to discuss methods that work with clients, peers, your management, and the people you lead.
"One of the first things I do to build respect is to gather information. I listen, observe, and research. I speak confidently and only when I have something valuable to say. I listen with empathy and use reflective communication. People want to be heard and understood and they respect leaders who can demonstrate their willingness to listen and learn.
I am also authentic and accountable. I keep my word to my management, my teams, and my clients and I own my mistakes. These behaviors help to establish trust and build respect."
