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Civility In The Workplace Training: A New Norm

by Jill Hoel | Aug 17, 2023 | Civility

Embracing Civility: Elevate Your Leadership With Transformative Workplace Training

Building a civil workplace culture has become critical to leadership development in today’s fast-paced, globally connected business world. The dynamics of modern organizations demand leaders who not only possess technical expertise but also embody emotional intelligence, empathy, and respectful communication. Unlock your leadership potential and embrace a new era of success with Civility in the Workplace Training from The Edge Executive Coaching & Training. Visit our website to explore our range of services. Through their testimonials, we take inspiration from the words of our satisfied customers. Contact us at (708) 848-5945 to start your journey toward transformative leadership.

Importance Of Civility In The Workplace Training

In the contemporary work landscape, the value of civility must be considered. A civil workplace fosters mutual respect, inclusivity, and open communication. It positively influences employee morale, engagement, and job satisfaction, increasing productivity and reducing turnover. Moreover, a civil workplace cultivates a collaborative and cohesive team environment, allowing individuals to thrive and contribute their best to organizational success.

Embracing Positive Change: The Need For Civility Training

Building a civil workplace begins with recognizing the need for positive change. Civility training allows individuals and leaders to develop essential skills in conflict resolution, effective communication, and empathy. By embracing Civility Training, organizations communicate that they prioritize respect and inclusivity, creating an organizational culture that resonates with employees, clients, and stakeholders.

Elevating Leadership Skills: The Role Of Executive Coaching Programs

Executive Coaching for Leaders goes beyond traditional training methodologies, offering personalized guidance and support to unlock an individual’s full potential. With a specific focus on elevating leadership skills, executive coaching plays a pivotal role in fostering civility in the workplace. Let’s explore how executive coaching programs empower leaders to champion positive change, embody emotional intelligence, and cultivate a civil and supportive work environment.

Personalized Guidance And Support

Executive coaching provides one-on-one attention tailored to the unique needs of each leader. Coaches work closely with individuals to understand their strengths, challenges, and leadership style, allowing them to craft personalized development plans that align with organizational objectives.

Cultivating Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EI) is a cornerstone of effective leadership and is closely linked to the practice of civility. Executive coaching programs emphasize developing EI, enabling leaders to understand and manage their emotions and those of others. This heightened emotional awareness fosters empathy, compassion, and the ability to connect with team members more deeply.

Navigating Complex Interpersonal Dynamics

Workplace interactions can be intricate, especially for leaders overseeing diverse teams. Executive coaching equips leaders with strategies to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, ensuring that disagreements are handled constructively and conflicts are resolved amicably.

Promoting Constructive Communication

Communication lies at the heart of a civil workplace. Through executive coaching, leaders refine their communication skills, learning to articulate their thoughts clearly, actively listen to others, and offer constructive feedback. Effective communication fosters a culture of openness and trust, where team members feel valued and encouraged to contribute their ideas.

Defining Civility: Creating Respectful And Inclusive Environments

Understanding the essence of civility is crucial for effective workplace implementation. Courtesy goes beyond politeness; it entails genuine respect and consideration for colleagues and team members. Creating an inclusive environment ensures diverse perspectives are valued and heard, fostering creativity and innovation. Through Civility Training, individuals understand how their actions and words impact others, paving the way for meaningful connections and collaborations.

a group of people having a workplace training

Civility Training In The Workplace

Impact Of Civility On Workplace Culture And Employee Morale

A culture of civility is not merely an aspirational goal but a fundamental pillar that underpins a thriving organization. By nurturing an environment of respect, empathy, and inclusivity, organizations can unleash the full potential of their workforce, foster collaboration, and ignite a sense of purpose among employees.

Heightened Creativity And Innovation

In an inclusive and respectful workplace, individuals feel empowered to express their unique perspectives and ideas. This freedom to share diverse viewpoints fosters creativity and innovation within teams. A civil workplace encourages constructive feedback and open dialogue, leading to breakthrough solutions and continuous improvement.

Strengthened Team Collaboration

Civility plays a crucial role in building strong team relationships. When individuals treat one another with respect, it builds trust and strengthens collaboration. Teams with solid camaraderie are more effective in problem-solving, decision-making, and achieving collective objectives.

Positive Organizational Reputation

An organization that prioritizes civility earns a positive reputation in the marketplace. Clients, customers, and partners are more inclined to engage with a company known for its respectful and ethical practices. A favorable reputation enhances brand loyalty and attracts top talent, contributing to the organization’s long-term success.

Increased Employee Retention

Employees are more likely to stay loyal to an organization that values and invests in their well-being. A culture of civility contributes to employee retention, reducing turnover and associated costs. This continuity in the workforce fosters institutional knowledge and continuity in projects.

Higher Productivity And Performance

Civility in the workplace positively impacts productivity and performance. In a civil work environment, employees are motivated to give their best effort, leading to higher productivity and efficiently achieving organizational objectives.

Leveraging Executive Coaching Services For Sustainable Change

To ensure long-term success, sustainable change requires ongoing support and evaluation. Executive Coaching Services extend beyond training sessions, providing leaders with continued guidance as they integrate civility into their daily practices. By monitoring progress and soliciting feedback, organizations can sustain a culture of civility that endures through challenges and growth.

Tailoring Civility Training For Senior Roles: Meeting Unique Needs

For executives and managers preparing for senior roles, Civility Training must address their challenges and responsibilities. Tailored training programs equip leaders with the tools to foster a cohesive and respectful work environment where diverse perspectives are valued and constructive communication prevails.

The Ripple Effect: How Civility Training Transforms Organizational Dynamics

Civility training has a profound ripple effect throughout an organization. When leaders champion civility, their behavior influences others to adopt a similar mindset. As a result, a culture of respect and inclusivity permeates the entire organization, impacting individual interactions, decision-making processes, and organizational success.

Conclusion

Civility in the Workplace Training is no longer an option but a necessary investment for organizations seeking to thrive in the modern business landscape. As the new norm in the workplace, civility creates a work environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best. At The Edge Executive Coaching & Training, we firmly believe that civility is the key to unlocking a workplace’s true potential. Our comprehensive Executive Coaching Services empower leaders to elevate their skills and prepare for senior roles confidently and gracefully. Read inspiring words from our satisfied clients through their testimonials. To take the first step towards a more civil workplace, contact us at (708) 848-5945. Let us partner with you on your path to becoming a truly exceptional leader, driving success through the power of civility.

The Edge Executive Coaching And Training Offers Services As Follows:

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can Workplace Civility Training Contribute To Employee Well-Being?

Workplace civility training enhances employee well-being by reducing stress and promoting a supportive work environment. Employees feeling respected and valued positively impacts their mental and emotional health.

Can Workplace Civility Training Help Address Microaggressions In The Workplace?

Workplace civility training can address microaggressions by raising awareness and providing tools to recognize and manage unconscious biases. It fosters an inclusive environment where all employees feel accepted.

Is Workplace Civility Training Suitable For Small Businesses As Well?

Workplace civility training is beneficial for small businesses. It promotes a positive work culture, improves teamwork, and contributes to the long-term success of any organization, regardless of its size.

Can Workplace Civility Training Improve Customer Relations And Loyalty?

Yes, workplace civility training positively impacts customer relations. Employees practicing civility with clients and customers create a positive experience, leading to customer loyalty and repeat business.

How Can Workplace Civility Training Help Employees Handle High-Pressure Situations?

Workplace civility training equips employees with emotional intelligence and coping strategies, enabling them to manage high-pressure situations with composure and professionalism.

Can Workplace Civility Training Improve Teamwork In Remote Work Settings?

Workplace civility training can improve teamwork in remote work settings by promoting transparent and respectful communication in virtual environments. It strengthens connections among remote team members.

What Sets Workplace Civility Training Apart From General Communication Training?

Workplace civility training is specifically tailored to address respectful and inclusive behavior in the workplace. It emphasizes emotional intelligence and conflict resolution, critical elements in fostering a civil work environment.

How Can Organizations Measure The Return On Investment (ROI) Of Workplace Civility Training?

Organizations can measure the ROI of workplace civility training by analyzing changes in employee satisfaction, productivity, retention rates, and reduced conflicts. Positive shifts in these areas indicate a successful training program.

5 Times You Should be Saying “Thank You” (and may not be)

by Jill Hoel | Jun 11, 2019 | Civility, Etiquette

“A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all other virtues.” – Cicero

Are you saying “thank you” enough these days? Expressing appreciation to others can have a wonderful ripple effect. As others feel acknowledged and respected, it’s often paid forward to the next person they encounter, and so on. Saying “thanks” reveals we see ourselves as part of a larger community, where we recognize we’re all interconnected—and strengthening that web can make us all better for it.

What follows are five instances in our everyday lives we should be saying “thank you” and may not be. Give yourself a point for each one you do.

When you walk through a door being held open for you

Many people fail to even notice that they’re walking through an open door. They’re engaged in a conversation or their own thoughts or I-don’t-know-what. The door-holder, though, is making a real effort to be helpful to others and deserves a “thank you” each and every time. Keep in mind they may have become trapped by a sudden swarm of people behind the mom with a stroller, but they didn’t let the door slam shut in front of you. They probably deserve an award.

When the car next to you lets you merge in front

We’ve all witnessed one specific gesture being used on the roadways, but there’s a better one we need to employ. It’s the universal handwave in front of the rearview mirror letting the driver behind you know that you appreciate them slowing down and giving you space. Don’t wave too soon, though. Make sure you’re exactly in front of them so your wiggling fingers are seen. I think we’d have less road-rage if we used more of the five-finger wave and less of the single-finger.

When the busboy refills water/clears plates/brings you anything

This holds true for anyone assisting your primary server (who also deserves a periodic “thank you”). These unsung heroes usually make less than the main servers, so saying “thank you” is especially appreciated. No one expects you to interrupt your conversation each and every time they appear. Just an occasional acknowledgement is called for.

When the grocery bagger is finished

The cashier deserves a “thank you”, of course, but the hardworking bagger has earned one, too. Be sure you make eye contact and thank them for taking good care of your eggs/cupcakes/bananas. For some, this is their first foray into the workforce. For others, this will be the only job they ever have. A little encouragement will mean a lot.

When the flight attendant hands you a drink

Here’s another stressful yet often thankless job. Yes, the engines are loud, your ears are plugged, your seatmate is hugging your armrest, and the person in front of you is fully-reclined, but make sure you at least mouth “thank you” to the attendant after they’ve served you. Placing our order for ginger ale comes easily; our thank you afterward doesn’t always.

“Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” – Voltaire

Restrain Yourself!

by Jill Hoel | Feb 20, 2018 | Civility

Incivility is all around us. Shrill debates, finger-pointing, and bullying have filled our workplaces, social media streams, schools, and families.

What we all need is a big dose of RESTRAINT. P.M. Forni, author of Choosing Civility: The Twenty-Five Rules of Considerate Conduct has written beautifully about this very idea:

“I would say insufficient training in restraint is identified as a cause of rising incivility. As a society, we have been very good in instilling self-respect in our children but not as good in instilling self-restraint. When we teach self-esteem but forget to train our children in self-restraint, we create children who are self-centered, who believe the world revolves around them, who are so self-invested that they have little moral energy left for their fellow human beings. They are trapped in a cage of narcissism that we have built for them. Restraint is an essential component of civility. We are civil when we are aware of others and we weave restraint, respect and consideration into the very fabric of this awareness.”

How can we show restraint in the workplace? Here are 6 ideas to consider:

Use a filter when speaking. Every thought in your head doesn’t need to be shared. Words leave a “wake”, much like a boat gliding across a lake. What is the “wake” you want to leave when you leave the room? Before you speak, try asking yourself: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?
Develop the ability to adapt your communication style. Everyone needs a toolbox of styles so they can flex in the moment and communicate in ways that will be understood on the receiving end. Your communication style shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all, because it doesn’t.
Ask for input before responding. As Simon Sinek teaches: Be the last to sp eak. Screen out distractions. Ask clarifying and expanding questions to verify your understanding and draw out further information. The discussion will be better because of it.
Respect boundaries. Don’t assume you’re on a first-name-basis with everyone you meet. Don’t interrupt. Don’t help yourself to other people’s stuff, food, ideas. Without boundaries, we have chaos.
Recognize that people have feelings. Demonstrating empathy and compassion is not a show of weakness; it’s a sign of strong leadership. Put yourself in others’ shoes and think about what could be going on their lives outside of work. As the saying goes, “Be kind. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.”
Handle conflict and critiques in private. These events are not for public consumption, nor should they be handled via email. Step out of the hallway and get to a place with a door you can close. If someone is upset, let them vent before jumping in. Restrain yourself. Instead, be passive and respectful.

It’s not easy to show restraint. We’re human beings, after all. And we love to be heard and tell others what they need to do. Developing the ability to hold back, listen, and carefully choose our words can build better relationships, workplaces, and communities. Restraint – a value we need more of.

3 Ways to Increase Civility in Your Workplace

by Jill Hoel | Feb 6, 2018 | Civility, Communication Skills, Etiquette

We all want our workplaces to be havens from conflict, a refuge from the strife of the outside world where we can work together in harmony toward shared goals and objectives. In an ideal world, workplaces could be the model for the rest of society. But are they?

The reality is that workplaces are a melting pot, probably more diverse than the social groups we interact with and the neighborhoods we return to at days end.

Herein lies the problem:
• Can we all get along at work when the world outside is swirling with controversy?
• Can we hold those hot-button issues at bay and get our work done with people who may think very differently from ourselves?
• Can we find a way to discuss issues in a civil, empathetic and safe way as a way to open minds and build bridges?

What does “being civil” mean? The author of Rude Awakenings, which I had the pleasure of being a contributing author to, defined it this way: “Being mindful of the dignity of the human being in your sphere, taking care not to demean that individual in any way.”

Civility is linked to the Latin word civitas, which meant “city” and “community” and gave us the word “civilization.” The word itself suggests a larger social concern. When we’re civil, we’re members in good standing of a community, we’re good neighbors and good citizens. We have an active interest in the well-being of our communities and a concern for the planet we inhabit. Choosing civility means choosing to do the right thing for others, for the “city”.

The breakdown in civility begins when people start to believe they’re the center of the universe, rather than a cog in a big wheel. The seeds are planted when people start showing up late, blame others, fail to say “thank you”, or demonstrate a lack of sensitivity. Attitudes of “I don’t care what you think” or “That’s just how I am – deal with it” can have a ripple effect on others and turn workplaces into an “every man for himself” mindset instead of “we’re all in this together.” Civility teaches that every word you say and every action you take impacts others and care should be taken to make our “city” a pleasant and productive place to be.

So what can we do to make our workplaces more civil and the world a better place? Take responsibility!

There are three forms of responsibility to consider:

Professional Responsibility

When you’re professionally responsibility, you take responsibility for the work you produce. You arrive on time, meet deadlines, and pull your weight on projects. You listen well and follow through. You send clear and unemotional emails, leave intelligible voice mails, and stay “present” on phone calls. It also means you do what you can to advance the company brand and make your organization successful. You do more than what it simply required.

Personal Responsibility

Personal Responsibility means you take responsibility for yourself and your actions. You don’t blame or bash others and you admit your mistakes. You don’t yell, make derogatory comments, or spread gossip. You clean up after yourself in break rooms and bathrooms. You do the right thing even when no one is watching, like refilling paper trays, starting a new pot of coffee, or throwing away food leftovers. Those who display personal responsibility demonstrate a high level of emotional intelligence and personal integrity.

Social Responsibility

Social Responsibility is the type of responsibility where you help others. Do you mentor, support, inspire, coach, encourage, and show compassion? If you’re a supervisor, supervise. If you’re a manager, manage. Are you a leader? Lead! Jump in and do what you can to help those around you grow and succeed.

Take responsibility – and our workplaces and world will be better because of it.

Incivility a problem in your workplace? Our full-day Civility in the Workplace workshop can help. Contact www.theedgeexecutivecoaching.com.

3 Tips to Better Listening

by Jill Hoel | Jul 26, 2017 | Civility, Communication Skills, Etiquette

Listening is one of the most important things we do as human beings and projects a well-developed Executive Presence. It demonstrates respect to others, it enables us to understand the other people’s wants and needs, and it can inform and improve our responses. All of us yearn to be heard and acknowledged by others. The challenge is that we think we’re listening to each other, but we’re not. We’re usually just formatting our responses. As Stephen Covey says, we need to “seek first to understand, then to be understood.” Here are three strategies that can help:

1. Lower the “cone of silence”

Our world is filled with distractions, both external and internal. What pulls your focus away from the other person and their message? If you’re old enough to remember the ‘60’s TV show, “Get Smart”, you’ll remember the “cone of silence”. The cone would descend over two people who needed to privately discuss top-secret information. I know, the cone never worked and actually prevented them from hearing each other, but you get the point. When someone is talking to you, try lowering your own cone of silence to block out everything going on around you.

Distractions generally fall into one of these four categories:

• Your physical comfort – you’re hungry, thirsty, cold, hot, or tired.

• Your psychological barriers – you’re bored or daydreaming, or their topic triggers thoughts of your own past experiences.

• The speaker’s style – they have a monotone voice or accent you don’t understand, or their personal grooming presents a challenge (bad breath, body odor, etc.)

• External interruptions – phone calls or notifications, outside noise or activity, visitors.

Listening takes energy and focus. You must first decide to listen, then work to eliminate all distractions. Stop multitasking, maintain eye contact (where the eyes go the ears will follow) and lower that cone!

2. Clean out your filters

Every message we hear is run through our personal filters, which can include our opinions of the person or issue, our past experiences, prejudices about the idea, and personal agendas. They’re stored in our subconscious and prevent us from being truly present. These biases can distort the message and even trigger our emotions. Develop an awareness of your filters and don’t let them get in the way of true understanding.

Take responsibility for interpretation. Words mean different things to different people, so you might need to ask for definitions (“What did they mean by ‘in the running?’”. “Are you talking about the A Project or B Project?”). Ask clarifying questions if you’re confused (“Are you referring to…?”, “I think I missed something, can you go back to…”). Most people don’t add enough specifics when they speak, so instead of making assumptions and creating a disconnect, make it your job to help them communicate more clearly before you respond.

3. Summarize occasionally

A few summaries as you listen will not only help confirm your understanding of their content, but allow you to also figure out their intent. “So what you’re saying is…”, “So you’re suggesting…, is that correct”? You’re floating ideas for confirmation and direction—and what they answer will help you formulate your next question or comment. Your summaries and questions can also help them figure out what’s missing, what’s possible, and what isn’t.

As you can see, effective listening often requires you to do some talking, along with focusing like a laser. Incorporate the three techniques above to their content—and your content will be better as a result.

Free Speech + Civility = A Good Combination

by Jill Hoel | Jul 6, 2016 | Civility, Communication Skills, Etiquette

A big dose of civility is what America needs right now, especially when our freedom of speech is under as much fire as it is these days. A civil society encourages dialogue and creates an environment where people feel free to express their views and not be silenced because of them.

Incivility is rampant in our current political process, along with our workplaces, sporting arenas, and roadways, but I’m even more troubled with what I see happening on America’s college campuses. They used to be places where free speech was celebrated, where a diversity of ideas was welcomed, nurtured, shared, and debated. Protests and civil disobedience were not unusual occurrences where a big, messy marketplace of ideas was available to all. Yes, I realize they didn’t always end peacefully, but these voices weren’t shot down by dissenters before they even started. People were given the opportunity to learn and then make their own decisions.

Now, many universities are either being forced to change their policies or have jumped on that bandwagon willingly—cancelling speakers that might have a different worldview, silencing student groups, and turning free spaces into “safe spaces”. Many campuses now have “bias response teams” to investigate claims of students’ feelings being hurt. When did we develop such thin skins? When did we lose the ability to hear others’ opinions and not be personally violated? It’s been reported that at one Big 10 university, resident advisors are being pressured to coerce students into signing an overly-broad “civility pledge” which, when combined with their new “Inclusive Language Campaign”, can lead, in my opinion, to administrative overreach and senseless investigations. Please—do not tarnish the magnificent concept of civility by attaching it to something that borders on intimidation.

Wouldn’t it be better if we encouraged free speech and exposed students to all ideas and worldviews? Wouldn’t it be better if we taught the art of civility which teaches people how to listen well, ask insightful questions, seek to understand, and then ultimately respect the other person’s opinion—even when it’s different than their own? Wouldn’t it be better if we had the skills to handle a diversity of viewpoints and disagreements ourselves, instead of running off to administrations, HR, or the government to step in and regulate it?

I agree with John Marshall, Vice President of Student Services at Colorado Mesa University, who said, “We need to help challenge our students. You don’t have a right not to be uncomfortable. We don’t always need to create these ultra-sensitive responses. We want [students] to think critically and deal with each other with respect and civility.” And I applaud the recent event at the Aspen Ideas Festival, where professors and authors spoke up about the failure of college administrators to respect free speech. http://www.campusreform.org/?ID=7797

Civility is not about silencing other’s views or even successfully convincing them of yours. Civility has nothing to do with coercion, regulation, or pointing fingers. It is about encouraging a marketplace of ideas, where diversity of thought and worldviews is encouraged, and interactions and disagreements with others are handled with respect and grace.

If you need more civility in your workplace, please check out http://theedgeexecutivecoaching.com/training-workshops/civility-in-the-workplace/

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