As memories of the COVID-19 lockdown slowly fade, we continue to experience the far-reaching consequences of this disease. Business is one area where we clearly see its residual effects.
Remote working became an important part of our culture. It brought families closer, caused people to create home offices and forced employees to video conference.
Korn Ferry, a global consulting firm specializing in attracting, developing, motivating and retaining talent in the workplace, conducted and reported the results of their March 2023 survey. Almost two-thirds of respondents said their employer was mandating a return to the office. Something interesting to note is that almost three-quarters of respondents said if allowed to remain a remote worker, they would consider a lower paying job.
With most of our workforce reluctantly returning to the office after a multi-year absence, many companies are seeing a surge in new workplace challenges. The biggest challenges faced by companies across the country include issues with professionalism, dress and communication. The problems in these areas are the result of remote workers reacclimating to work with other employees while newcomers to the workforce are arriving with no prior workplace experience.
So, what corrective measures are many of America’s top companies taking to combat this new epidemic of disruptive work interaction? The answer, which may sound like something out of a Charles Dickens novel, is etiquette and protocol training.
This is proving highly effective at retooling the workplace culture because it identifies and defines accepted behaviors, dress and communication at work. Etiquette and protocol training is increasing in popularity as it helps create a respectful, cooperative and professional culture that enhances communication.
In a survey of over 1,500 senior business leaders commissioned by ResumeBuilder.com, the results were astounding. Key findings indicate that six in 10 companies have initiated etiquette and protocol classes (or will be implementing these in 2024) with over two-thirds of respondents saying this training has been successful.
In companies offering or planning to offer this training, 10% say this will be required for Gen Z workers and new college graduates while 60% will require this for all of their employees. Many CEOs who responded to this survey felt that Gen Z workers and recent college graduates lack the soft skills (non-technical skills that allow one to successfully interact with others) required to succeed in the workforce.
Whether you bring in an outside etiquette trainer or you address the matter of professionalism and culture in your workplace internally, it’s important all employees understand there is one simple underlying concept – RESPECT. Self-respect always demands we all dress and act appropriately, respect the policies and standards of the office, and show consistent respect to co-workers and managers.
Here are six positive steps to revitalize your office culture:
* Revise your office policy manual and go through this with staff.
* Implement a standard dress code.
* Display posters promoting teamwork, cooperation and kindness.
* Reward behaviors you seek to instill in your organization.
* Consider doing an office book study to learn and discuss a subject.
* Host training on teamwork, communications and problem solving.
It is never too late to improve the culture — and the resulting bottom line — of a company. It takes a determined effort and dedication.
With the pandemic behind us, there will never be a better time to revise the workplace environment, making it a place employees look forward to being a part of by building a sense of family loyalty and united pursuit. Business owner, executive or manager, this is your opportunity to make a difference. Don’t miss the moment.
Reen Waterman is a business coach, national speaker, writer and communications professional. Certified by the Charleston School of Protocol, he trains businesses and corporations in effective marketing and communications strategies. He can be found here.