R E S P E C T - Aretha sang about it - but it's all about showing it.

From a Reception Desk to Restaurant Dining

Be nice. Be nice to anyone and everyone you meet.  But sometimes, for whatever reason, we forget this common courtesy, causing unforeseen negative consequences.  Real life offers the best examples. Following are examples where people lost career opportunities because of their lack of appreciation towards people trying to assist or serve them.

Truer than Fiction

The Dean of a medical school once explained to a group of admissions interviewers (including myself) that the only person who had immediate admissions veto power was his administrative assistant.   If a candidate acted rude to his assistant, it was a reliable predictor that the person wouldn't become a caring physician.  The Dean didn't want interns who could not show courtesy to whomever they may encounter.  The candidate was out of the door before the door even shut behind them.   

In a USA article, a CEO described how he purposely had interviews over a restaurant meal so he could observe how the candidate behaved towards the restaurant staff.  Indifferent or dismissive behavior towards a server indicated poor leadership qualities. A candidate who turned the charm on with the CEO while totally ignoring a server’s efforts, indicated a lack of awareness. The CEO wondered "would they treat subordinates in a an office the same way?" Outcome - skip dessert and pay the check.

How will you know if you're successful - pay attention to how people respond to you.  Returning smiles are always a good indicator that a mutual exchange of respect has occurred.