A new company officer should always remember the respect she or he has among crew members must be:

The correct answer is that respect must be earned. In a fire service or emergency response environment, respect is a fundamental component of effective teamwork and leadership. When a new company officer steps into a leadership role, they need to establish their credibility and trustworthiness among crew members. This is typically done through actions and behaviors that demonstrate commitment, competence, fairness, and integrity, rather than simply relying on their rank or title.

Earning respect involves consistently leading by example, communicating openly, and being approachable. It is about building relationships based on mutual trust and understanding, which can positively influence morale and the overall effectiveness of the team. Officers who take the time to earn respect are more likely to foster a positive work environment where team members feel valued and motivated to perform their best.

In contrast, respect that is based solely on rank can be superficial and does not guarantee the support or cooperation of team members. Likewise, relying on past relationships or abusing authority does not contribute to a healthy workplace dynamic and can lead to resentment or disengagement among crew members. Therefore, focusing on earning respect is essential for a company officer’s success and the well-being of the team.