The current U.S. political climate is highly polarized, and recent events in the news suggest this trend is unlikely to change soon. Instead, it may continue to worsen. This lack of civility is not just a political problem; it is a people problem. It affects how we interact in our personal lives and professional spaces. In such a toxic climate, fostering a workplace environment that values open, respectful dialogue can feel like a monumental challenge.
Political leaders often contribute to divisiveness, so the responsibility to restore civility falls to other leadership groups. Managers are the most likely candidates to take on this critical role.
You might think, “Don’t managers have enough pressure on them?” Achieving business objectives in a challenging economy is already a significant burden. However, the simple answer is that the responsibility of leadership goes beyond business targets. If managers truly take their calling to lead seriously, they will recognize that allowing their direct reports to navigate this toxic environment without their steady guidance is not an option. As Simon Sinek encourages, leaders must “take care of those in their charge.” Helping restore civility, even in a business environment, is necessary.
So, managers have accepted the challenge to help raise the level of civility and are motivated to make a difference. How do they do it? Here are actionable steps managers can take to encourage open dialogue while enhancing civility in the workplace.
Establish Clear Communication
The foundation of any respectful dialogue is clear and consistent guidelines. Managers should work with their teams to develop a set of communication norms that everyone agrees to uphold. These guidelines should emphasize respect, active listening, and the avoidance of inflammatory language. By setting these expectations, employees have a framework within which they can freely express their ideas without fear of disrespect.
Lead by Example
Managers play a critical role in modeling the behavior they wish to see in their teams. Demonstrating respect, patience, and empathy in all interactions sets a powerful example for employees. When managers handle disagreements calmly and constructively, they show that it is possible to engage in meaningful conversations without resorting to hostility.
Facilitate Training and Workshops
Investing in regular training sessions on topics such as conflict resolution, effective communication, and emotional intelligence can equip employees with the skills they need to engage in civil discourse. Workshops that focus on understanding different perspectives and building empathy can also help break down barriers and foster a more inclusive environment.
Create Safe Spaces for Dialogue
Designate specific times and places for open discussions where employees can share their thoughts and concerns without fear of retribution. These safe spaces can be physical locations or structured meetings where open dialogue is encouraged and facilitated. Managers should ensure that these discussions are moderated to maintain respect and order.
Listen to Understand, Not Just to Respond
Effective communication is rooted in genuine understanding. Managers should encourage employees to listen actively with the intent to understand rather than just to respond. This involves paying full attention to the speaker, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting on what has been said before offering a response. This practice fosters deeper connections and reduces misunderstandings.
Encourage Diverse Perspectives
A culture of civility thrives on diversity. Encourage employees to share their unique perspectives and experiences. When people feel heard and valued, they are more likely to engage in respectful dialogue. Managers should value having teams with varied perspectives and should encourage their direct reports to respectfully bring their “authentic selves” to the workplace. Diverse teams bring a variety of viewpoints to the table, enriching conversations and fostering a deeper understanding among colleagues.
Address Incivility Promptly
When instances of incivility occur, managers must address them promptly and effectively. Ignoring toxic behavior can lead to a deterioration of the workplace culture. Managers should take a firm stand against disrespectful behavior, providing clear consequences and using these moments as opportunities for learning and growth.
Encourage Mindfulness and Self-Regulation
Teach employees the importance of mindfulness and self-regulation. Encouraging practices such as taking deep breaths, pausing before responding, and reflecting on one’s own emotions can help prevent heated exchanges. Mindfulness can create a more thoughtful and deliberate approach to conversations.
Avoid Group Confrontations
Handling conflicts or sensitive topics in a group setting can sometimes escalate tensions. Managers should encourage private, one-on-one conversations to resolve issues whenever possible. This approach allows for a more controlled and respectful exchange, reducing the likelihood of public confrontations that can disrupt team dynamics.
Regularly Assess Workplace Culture
Managers should continually assess the workplace culture through surveys, feedback sessions, and one-on-one meetings. Understanding the current state of the workplace environment allows managers to identify areas for improvement and take proactive steps to enhance civility.
Foster a Sense of Community
Creating a sense of community within the workplace can strengthen bonds and reduce divisiveness. Organize team-building activities, social events, and collaborative projects that bring employees together. A strong sense of community fosters mutual respect and makes it easier to navigate difficult conversations.
These steps seem simple enough, but finding the time or resources skilled enough to implement them can be tough. If internal teams lack the skills or bandwidth to do so, we strongly recommend reaching out to professional service firms like Mercury Performance Group. With our combined knowledge and experience coupled with our value-driven dedication to helping businesses succeed, we can help transform your culture into a beacon of civility for others in your industry to admire.
In conclusion, the role of managers in fostering a respectful and civil workplace is more crucial than ever. By establishing clear guidelines, leading by example, providing training, creating safe spaces for dialogue, avoiding group confrontations, and listening to understand, managers can encourage open and respectful conversations. Through these efforts, not only can the current level of civility be maintained, but it can also be significantly enhanced, creating a healthier and more productive work environment for everyone.