R-E-S-P-E-C-T!

Published: Nov 8 2021

How can you best show your respect for others?  Listen - Listening to what another person has to say is a simple and effective way to respect them.  Affirm - When you affirm someone, you let them know they matter, they have value, they are important, and they are worthy of your respect.  Be kind - Kindness is the ultimate expression of respect you can show someone. Be polite - Go out of your way to be polite to others. It takes no extra effort, and the benefits are endless.   Be thankful - Human beings thrive in an environment where they feel appreciated and valued. Being thankful is just another way we show respect.

Respect is not something you just switch on and off between your personal life and your work life. Respect is part of Our Values and should always be displayed!  

Whether it’s respect for your parents or children, your significant other or a stranger, a younger generation or the elderly, your colleagues who might have different views from you or someone who doesn’t look or speak like you – respect is a fundamental attribute that we all value.  

In the workplace when we respect one another, we demonstrate Unquestionable Trust. Research tells us that mutual respect is essential in establishing and building lasting trust. Expressing respect and trust in a work group allows our teams to be more productive, higher performing, and happier at work.   

Our Code of Ethics talks about how important it is to treat each other with respect.    

“We treat each other with fairness, respect and dignity. We value and encourage different ideas and points of view. Inclusion and diversity are strengths that unlock our full potential.”     

In a civil society, not only is showing respect the right response, but the belief that others around you are worthy of your respect, that they are important to you and to be held in the highest regard is critical. Showing respect conveys a sense of real admiration for others’ unique qualities. In addition, showing respect demonstrates care, concern, and consideration for the needs and/or feelings of others.   

All of us share the responsibility of making Southern Company a positive and respectful workplace by demonstrating the behaviors outlined in Our Values, the Code of Ethics, and our policies. Visit the Ethics and Compliance website for these resources and review the Workplace Free of Discrimination and Harassment Policy by visiting policies.southernco.com.  
  

Duty to Act   Our Values and Code of Ethics call on us to act with honesty, respect, fairness and integrity. But when that doesn’t happen, the Concerns Program is a resource to report a wide range of illegal or unethical behaviors.    All Southern Company employees and contractors can use the Concerns Program. It’s best to speak with your supervisor first, but if you do not feel comfortable or feel the issue has not been resolved, you should feel confident in using the Concerns Program.