Sejal Thakkar EMPLOYMENT LAW ATTORNEY Chief Civility Officer

Does the new focus on civility suggest the need for updated, preventative training- beyond just checking the box? YES!

A solid foundation begins by combining knowledge, training and clear expectations about unacceptable conduct and its consequences.  

It’s easy to underestimate the importance of providing training to all employees, at every level of the organization. Yet, the cost of taking preventative measures to avoid potential exposure for claims is minimal, compared to the costs you could face in defending a claim of harassment or discrimination. 

Are you working to change the culture of your company? First, you need to build a solid foundation centered around respect in the workplace. It is important to assess the workplace environment as heavy demands and pressures to meet goals and deadlines can lead to dismissive, demeaning, and disrespectful conduct.  

Policies or training alone won’t change behavior. Aligning goals with clearly stated workplace values is vital to fostering a healthy work environment. 

Civility in the workplace enables employees to feel safe expressing their ideas and fosters organizational cohesion. 

A solid foundation requires  consistent, effective, and ongoing training to all employees to promote a respectful workplace in which everyone feels valued, is treated with civility, without the fear of reprisal by management.