Civility Webinar: Creating a Civility Action Plan

The Greater Des Moines Partnership, Capital Crossroads and The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University are hosting Civility Webinars focusing on a variety of civility topics to enhance a culture of excellence in the Greater Des Moines region.

The third session again welcomed Scott Raecker, executive director of the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University. He discussed creating a civility action plan along with how and where to use the strategies outlined.

Creating a Civility Action Plan

Raecker shared ways to help achieve the best outcomes, including:

• Inviting change
• Teaching and communicating
• Listening and learning
• Building relationships
• Building relationships with those who have influence
• Setting the right mindset

He advised that finding solutions means working on each of the above, with the most time spent on mindset and building relationships. In order to shape a culture of civility, Raecker said there are influences you must be aware of that challenge this like organizational work and circumstances. Take COVID-19 and the pandemic. It has shaped leadership, culture, character and performances over the course of the last year. In order to maintain optimal performance in a business, there must be a synergy of achievement, integrity, growth and community.

Raecker addresses how to focus on civility with a “My Civility Plan” worksheet that asks:

• When and where do I need to focus on my civility?
• What do I need to think to maintain civility?
• What should I do to maintain civility?
• Did I achieve the desired outcome?
• When and how will I hold myself accountable to my civility plan?

Raecker goes into detail about communication within the workplace, emphasizing the importance of treating each other with care and respect by listening, being open to new ideas and having candid conversations. He offers up a communication checklist, as well as the types of statements to use and others to avoid.

Watch the full webinar below:

 

Learn from the previous Civility Webinars on relationship communication and teamwork, which offers tools and strategies for civility and civility on social media, including tips and strategies for posting to social media.

The Civility Webinar events will discuss civil discourse topics to assist business leaders in creating a culture of excellence.

Find these tips useful? Learn more tricks on how to maximize the potential of your business through The Partnership’s Small Business Resources Hub.