In evaluating the health of a workplace, it is essential to move beyond mere observation and opinion. Just like assessing the health of a patient, a thorough and systematic approach is needed to gauge the health of an organization. This requires an examination of various factors and measures that impact organizational health, such as civility.
Civility refers to the behavior and conduct of individuals in the workplace. It encompasses showing respect, kindness, tolerance, and professionalism towards others. A civil workplace promotes a positive and harmonious environment that allows individuals to thrive and contribute effectively to the organization’s goals. On the other hand, an uncivil workplace can create tension, conflict, and hinder productivity.
To measure workplace civility, organizations can use various tools and assessments. These tools aim to provide a quantitative and objective measurement of the level of civility present in a workplace. One such tool is the Work Environment Assessment, which involves gathering data and feedback from employees about the organizational climate and their experiences.
The results of a Work Environment Assessment can provide valuable insights into the level of civility in a workplace. It can help identify areas of concern and areas of strength. For example, if the assessment reveals that there are high levels of respect and professionalism among employees, it suggests a civil work environment. Conversely, if the assessment shows a prevalence of uncivil behaviors such as bullying or harassment, it indicates a need for improvement.
Based on the results of a Work Environment Assessment, we can determine the civility of a workplace. It is important to note that civility is not a black and white concept. A workplace can exhibit varying levels of civility, which may vary across different departments or teams. The assessment provides a holistic view of the organization’s civility by considering the experiences of employees across various dimensions.
When evaluating the civility of a workplace, it is essential to consider the perspectives of all individuals involved. What may be perceived as a problem by one person may not be recognized as such by others. Similarly, the leadership may not be fully aware of issues that run deeper within the organization. The assessment helps to capture these differing perspectives and provides an objective measure of civility.
To illustrate the concept, let me share a personal experience of incivility in the workplace. In my previous organization, there was an incident where a colleague consistently made derogatory comments towards a team member. These comments were disrespectful and created a hostile environment. The affected team member reported the incident to our supervisor, who promptly initiated an investigation.
The investigation involved gathering statements from witnesses, reviewing any available evidence, and conducting interviews with the involved parties. The supervisor also ensured confidentiality throughout the process to protect the individuals involved. After a thorough investigation, appropriate disciplinary actions were taken against the colleague, which included sensitivity training and a formal warning.
This example highlights how addressing incivility in the workplace requires a systematic approach. It involves conducting a fair and unbiased investigation, ensuring accountability for the responsible parties, and implementing corrective measures to prevent the recurrence of such behaviors.
In conclusion, measuring workplace civility requires more than observation and opinion. It involves using tools and assessments, such as the Work Environment Assessment, to gather objective data on the level of civility in an organization. This assessment provides valuable insights into the strengths and areas of improvement regarding workplace civility. By addressing incivility through a systematic approach, organizations can create a healthier and more positive work environment.
