At the beginning of each Respectful Workplace program we lead, we ask participants to agree to 10 “Rules of  Engagement”.  We suggest these guidelines both to ensure a safe learning environment and  to assist each participant  to develop a heightened sense of empathy and awareness during the process.

When rereading the “rules” recently, I realized they could also be used as guidelines for any group or organizational meeting.

1. Maintain a respectful tone and volume when sharing my opinion.
2. Take the point of view of others.
3. Value the many different sources of knowledge that exist.
4. Listen to the entire message, without interrupting or editorializing.
5. Look for places to agree, connect or support.
6. Explain why I disagree, when I do.
7. Admit to myself where I need to grow or change.
8. Acknowledge that I don’t have to be right all the time.
9. Act in ways that edify the group’s self-esteem.
10. Be respectful of time when making comments.

While certainly not the last word on the topic, these guidelines do help set the tone for an open-minded exploration on the subject of respect. But I’m sure there are even more ideas. What would you add to this list?

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Tags: employee engagement, respectful workplace