Respect influences relationships, goodwill, trust, and future opportunities.

Genuine respect allows us to disagree without diminishing another person’s dignity.

Reliable Respect is demonstrated through consistency, particularly when agreement may be difficult to reach.

About 20 of us sat at tables arranged in a large rectangle in the hospital conference room. The configuration was intended to encourage dialogue. At one end sat five senior executives representing academic, clinical, and hospital leadership. Around the remaining “U” of the rectangle sat surgeons, some of us dressed in suits and others still in scrubs after coming directly from their operating rooms.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss a proposed partnership that had raised several concerns within our department. As one of the spokespersons for my colleagues, I expressed our concerns, including the potential negative implications for patient care and the institution's reputation.

As the discussion progressed, the tension in the room became palpable, and before I could finish, a silver-haired executive interrupted. "That is the stupidest thing I've ever heard. You know nothing about business."

The room fell silent.

This was the first time we had met. He knew nothing of my background or experience, not that it should have mattered. Taken aback by his comment, I instinctively paused before responding. "It's good to know how you feel. Again, this is our position."

The following day, another senior executive who had attended the meeting approached me. He expressed appreciation for how I had handled the exchange and apologized on behalf of his colleague.

One Moment, Two Responses

I have often reflected on that moment. Two executives representing........

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