Apologies for getting into semantics but I think the problem with this thread is that there seems to be no general consensus on the definition of "respect" (it seems to have so many meanings on this thread). I did a quick google "define respect" and top result came out with:
"re·spect/riˈspekt/Noun: A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.
Verb: Admire (someone or something) deeply, as a result of their abilities, qualities, or achievements.
Synonyms: noun. regard - esteem - reverence - deference - consideration
verb. honour - honor - esteem - regard - venerate - revere"
If the above definition is correct then there are only a few people I have "deep admiration" for. I doubt that I could "deeply admire" a WG just because she was a Working Girl (just as I wouldn't admire anyone just because of the job they did) and in that respect Cassie is right when she says:
Noone deserves to be respected no matter what their job. It is something that has to be earnt.
If a WG raised thousands for charity then I would definitely deeply admire her, similarly, with a punter. At the end of the day you deeply admire someone because of their abilities, qualities and achievements not their career choice.