In today's fast-paced world, it's easy for workplace environments to suffer from a lack of civility, leading to negative impacts on employee morale, productivity, and overall well-being. Incivility, as defined by Christine Porath, an associate professor at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, can manifest in various ways, from texting during meetings to mocking or belittling others. Incivility not only hurts the individuals targeted, but also damages the organization as a whole. In this blog, we will explore the importance of cultivating a positive workplace environment and share actionable steps to transform your organization.
Porath's research has found that incivility is becoming increasingly widespread. In 1998, about half of surveyed employees reported experiencing rudeness at least once a month; by 2016, the figure had risen to 62%. Incivility is present across industries, often exacerbated in settings with significant power differences. This toxic environment has wide-ranging consequences, leading to decreased employee engagement, innovation, and performance.
To counteract these negative effects, it's essential for organizations to create a positive workplace environment. Here are some effective strategies to nurture civility and respect in your organization:
Foster personal thriving: Encourage employees to focus on their own growth and well-being. This involves pursuing cognitive and affective thriving, which includes continual learning, passion, and excitement at work. By doing so, employees become more resilient and better equipped to handle incivility.
Encourage self-awareness: Help employees recognize their own behaviors and their impact on others. This can be achieved through feedback, working with a mentor or career coach, engaging in team tune-ups, journaling, and practicing self-care.
Create a culture of respect: Establish a workplace environment that values and promotes respect, from management to entry-level employees. By setting the tone at the top, organizations can create a ripple effect of civility and positivity throughout the workforce.
Emphasize communication: In our digital age, communication gaps and misunderstandings can easily arise. Encourage face-to-face interactions and foster open, respectful dialogue to reduce the likelihood of incivility.
Provide opportunities for growth and development: Allow employees to pursue new skills, hobbies, or interests that contribute to their personal and professional growth. This not only improves their overall well-being but also helps them become more resilient in the face of incivility.
Cultivate mentorship: Connect employees with mentors who can challenge them, provide guidance, and ensure they don't stagnate or become unproductive.
Promote self-care: Encourage employees to prioritize their well-being by getting enough sleep, eating healthily, exercising, and practicing mindfulness. These activities can help individuals ward off the negative effects of incivility.
Find purpose in work: Help employees connect with the deeper meaning behind their jobs. By reminding them of the nonmonetary aspects that attracted them to their roles, they are more likely to feel gratitude and appreciation for their work.
Build positive relationships: Encourage employees to forge strong connections both within and outside of the workplace. Positive relationships can counterbalance the negative effects of incivility and provide emotional support.
Be the change: Inspire employees to lead by example and embody the civility they wish to see in their workplace. Simple actions such as thanking others, listening attentively, and smiling can create a ripple effect of positivity.
In conclusion, cultivating a positive workplace environment is crucial for the success and happiness of employees and organizations alike. By fostering civility, respect, and personal thriving, you can transform your workplace into a nurturing and supportive environment where everyone can flourish.