Creating a Culture of Civility

As an employee, you get to choose where you work, but you do not get to choose who you work with. That is why organizations are full of people with varying opinions, backgrounds, upbringing, education, morals, values, and beliefs. Within these organizations, we encourage leaders to promote diversity. However, we also need to establish a positive way to engage with others when faced with diversity of thought. That is why SHRM is promoting their campaign for 1 Million Civil Conversations. Fostering civility at work can lead to a better employee experience, improved well-being, fewer employee relations issues, and increased innovation, among many other benefits. I believe there are two interpersonal skills we can all work on to help us drive those civil conversations: consideration and courage.



Consideration

The only way we can seek to understand, work, and communicate better with others is to consider what they are saying. Consideration does not mean you have to commit to the opinions of others, but it does mean that you give careful thought to what they have to say. We should listen with an open mind and positive intent. Unfortunately, when presented with differing opinions, we often skip this step and go straight to defending our position. However, taking a few moments to consider the thoughts of others can lead to more civil conversations. You may even find that others are more receptive to your suggestions once they see your willingness to listen to theirs. Remember, it is okay to disagree and debate, but how we do it will make all the difference. 



Courage

Next, we must have the courage to embark on these civil conversations. Shying away from complex discussions will only make the situation worse. We must be willing to engage in difficult conversations to promote positive work environments. The more we lean into these talks, the more routine they become and eventually part of the workplace culture. Employees and leaders who champion this change step up and set an example of civil behavior by showing respect for others. Likewise, they look for ways to promote harmony instead of hostility. Having the courage to break from the norm and move toward a better way of thinking is the first step in moving toward a culture of civility.