Sometimes I wonder if we truly live in a civilized society. It seems that rude and discourteous behavior is on the rise.
Angry commuters use their vehicles to take out their aggressions and deliberately cut others off in traffic. Customer service has diminished to the point where most would prefer to use the impersonal ATM machine than face an unhappy bank teller. Malicious political campaigns and tactics draw out the worst in even the most respected individuals. Children face tremendous fear and stress from bullies at school.
The examples of an uncivilized society are too numerous to recount.
The impact of such destructive behavior can be more psychologically damaging than open forms of abuse, such as harassment and violence. From a business and leadership perspective, the negative behavior happening outside of the workplace is trickling in — affecting employee loyalty, organizational commitment and overall productivity.
It’s time to for a change.
But, understanding precedes change. What typically leads to uncivil behavior is a disagreement. Someone wants to be right, better or stronger. Someone wants to be heard. Sadly, that attitude often leads to a win-lose outcome.
As a leader, the best first step is to realize that conflict is a vital and necessary part of organizational success. Properly facilitated, disagreements lead to healthy, constructive conversations that translate into creativity, innovation and a shared sense of accomplishment.
Next, learn to embrace different perspectives and make workplace civility a priority in your business by implementing these practical ideas:
- Pursue understanding first.
- Listen and respect other opinions.
- Seek common ground, even if it’s to agree to disagree.
- Tune into what’s happening around you; observe the climate.
- Accept responsibility for your actions and the consequences of those actions.
- Offer and willingly accept constructive feedback.
Leaders are called to promote a safe and respectful workplace. That means insisting on the practice of civility and common courtesy.
It starts with you. Take time to assess your own behaviors. Do you gossip or spread rumors? Have you ever risen your voice to make a point? Are you communicating important information to your team, or withholding information they need?
Set an expectation of workplace civility by “walking the talk” and being the change you want to see.
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