Civility in the Workplace

posted on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 in Grow Cedar Valley

Creating a workplace culture rooted in respect, empathy, and understanding requires a clear and intentional approach. Grow Cedar Valley invited Scott Raecker, Executive Director of The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University and former Iowa House Representative, to discuss how integrating civility into daily interactions can strengthen teams and support a positive environment. His talk offered a framework and specific actions that any organization can implement to promote more meaningful and effective communication.

Understanding the Character Counts Framework

Raecker, a Waterloo native, introduced the Character Counts framework, which serves as a foundation for developing civility across various settings, from classrooms to boardrooms. The framework is built on six pillars:

Care: Demonstrating kindness and compassion towards others.

Trustworthiness: Building a reputation based on honesty and integrity.

Respect: Acknowledging the value of different perspectives and treating others with dignity.

Responsibility: Taking accountability for one’s actions and their impact on others.

Fairness: Making decisions that are just and equitable for everyone involved.

Citizenship: Contributing positively to your community and workplace.

By embracing these six pillars, organizations can create a structured approach to building and maintaining a culture of civility and collaboration.

Practical Strategies for Promoting Civility at Work

Drawing from Raecker’s insights and the Character Counts framework, here are some practical ways your organization can encourage civility within your teams:

Encourage Carefrontation Instead of Confrontation

Unlike confrontation, which often carries a negative connotation, carefrontation emphasizes addressing issues with empathy and respect. It’s about focusing on the behavior or issue at hand, rather than targeting the individual.

He suggests when providing feedback, approach with genuine curiosity. Ask open-ended questions to understand their background, experiences and viewpoints. Identify shared interests, values or goals, even if your specific positions differ. Seek to learn, not just debate.

Build Personal Connections Across the Team

Raecker highlighted the importance of building relationships with colleagues who may have different viewpoints or backgrounds to help bridge divides and create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued. Personal connections build trust and pave the way for more open and effective communication.

Promote Self-Awareness and Accountability

Civility starts with each individual. Encouraging self-awareness helps team members recognize their own impact on the workplace dynamic.

Leverage the Power of Recognition

Raecker emphasized that a civil workplace is created through intentional actions. Publicly acknowledging those who demonstrate care, respect, and responsibility encourages others to follow suit.

By integrating these takeaways, organizations can start building an environment where respect and civility are the norm. While it may not always be easy, the long-term benefits—such as improved morale, better teamwork, and increased productivity—are well worth the effort.

Bringing it All Together

Scott Raecker provided a powerful reminder that civility is not only a nicety but a necessity for effective teamwork and leadership. Implementing these principles doesn’t require grand gestures; small, consistent actions can transform your workplace. From setting clear ground rules to engaging in carefrontation, these strategies offer a roadmap for creating a more positive and productive work environment.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

The journey toward building a more civil and effective workplace doesn’t end here. Join us at the upcoming Opportunity Summit to continue exploring how civility, inclusion, and effective communication can shape the future of our workplaces and communities!