I once heard these words come out of the mouth of a colleague.

Here is the problem with that complaint.

Leadership is about trust, way more than it is about respect. And you can’t demand respect  before you build trust.

In fact, I’m not sure you can ever “demand “ respect.

Respect is earned.

But when going the other direction, leaders respect everyone - whether it’s earned or not.  It’s the leader’s obligation. It’s the leader’s responsibility.

Respect is all on you.