Return to Civility?

Ever been hung up on at work or constantly interrupted during a meeting? It’s what some people are calling a “loss of civility” in the workplace – and it might be a bigger issue than we think.

Studies show “12 percent of people report they’ve left their jobs because of how they’re treated,” says Peggy Parks, president of Parks Image Group, Inc. Productivity and morale suffer too – another study reveals 80 percent of employees who experience a single incident of incivility lose work time worrying about it.

Parks is out to change all that as a spokesperson for the National Civility Project, based out of Johns Hopkins University. The project brings together members of the community and academia to look at the significance of civility, manners and politeness in society.

Not all of the efforts have been successful. Earlier this year, when members of Congress were asked to sign a “Civility Pledge,” only three members agreed.

What can be done?

Better Workplace Now gives 20 tips for building a kinder work environment, including seeking advice more than giving it and skipping the “mindless how-ya-doin’” in favor of a question with genuine interest when chatting with a colleague.

Experts add that civil interactions are especially vital in small businesses and “it is up to the employer to clearly define what behaviors will and won’t be tolerated.”

Bonus PINK Link: One of our expert bloggers explains how manners will take you where money won’t.

By Sidmel K. Estes

“I have respect for manners as such, they are a way of
dealing with people you don’t agree with or like.” Margaret Mead