Workplace Civility: Myth or Mandate?
Does an employer have the legal right to mandate workplace civility, or is that just a myth? Does an employer have an obligation to do so? How about the ability? The answers to these questions may conflict with one another, creating perhaps the latest and greatest HR Bermuda Triangle. This interactive and engaging session will cover: (1) relevant guidance from federal regulatory agencies (such as the EEOC and the NLRB); (2) state legislative trends related to employers’ liability for workplace bullying; and (3) proactive tips for setting and maintaining workplace policies and practices that foster a culture of professional conduct, respect and workplace civility. In this session, you will learn:
- Current state legislative trends that are impacting employers’ liability related to workplace bullying.
- Similarities and differences between federal agencies’ perspectives on employer obligations to maintain workplace civility.
- How to compare and contrast options for related policy development and enforcement.
Christine V. Walters, JD, MAS, SHRM-SCP

Ms. Walters has more than 30 years’ combined experience in management, HR administration, employment law practice, and teaching.
She has presented at conferences across the country, been engaged as an expert witness, and testified before U.S. Congressional and state legislative committees on employment issues.
Her book, “From Hello to Goodbye: Proactive Tips for Maintaining Positive Employee Relations” is in its 2nd edition and was one of the SHRMStore’s “Great 8” best-sellers for eight consecutive years.
Today, Ms. Walters works as an independent consultant doing business as FiveL Company, “Helping Leaders Limit their Liability by Learning the Law.”SM
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