Summary:
Eliminating workplace bullying doesn’t start with policies; it starts with vision.
In this episode, host Dr. Renee Thompson discusses why a leader’s clear, intentional vision is the missing ingredient for addressing workplace bullying and incivility. She explains why “vision first, culture second” is essential for shaping consistent behaviors and preventing teams from defaulting to unhealthy norms. Dr. Thompson shares how a practical, department-specific vision acts as a guidepost for daily decision-making and accountability. She also offers real-world examples of how leaders can translate vision into observable behaviors that create respectful, psychologically safe work environments.
Tune in to learn how defining and modeling a clear cultural vision can transform the way teams treat one another and build healthier workplaces.
About Dr. Renee Thompson:
Dr. Renee Thompson is a leading authority on creating healthy work cultures by eliminating bullying and incivility in healthcare. With more than 31 years of experience as a clinical nurse, educator, quality manager, and executive leader, she has become one of the most sought-after experts on workplace culture. As CEO and Founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute, Renee works with healthcare organizations around the world to equip leaders with the tools they need to cultivate professional, respectful, and supportive teams.
Renee is a published author, award-winning speaker, and one of only 30 nurses worldwide to earn the Certified Speaking Professional designation. She also serves on The Joint Commission’s Workplace Violence Technical Advisory Panel and has been recognized globally for her thought leadership and advocacy.
What You’ll Learn In This Episode:
- Eliminating workplace bullying and incivility begins with a leader clearly defining the culture they want to create.
- A compelling vision provides a “true north” that guides behavior, decision-making, and accountability during everyday work and moments of stress.
- Vision is not a mission statement or list of values, but a vivid, practical picture of how people treat one another day to day.
- Culture change is most effective when visions are specific to each department’s realities, challenges, and work environment.
- Translating vision into explicit, observable behaviors helps teams align expectations and sustain a respectful, psychologically safe workplace.
Links & Resources:
- Connect with and follow Dr. Renee Thompson on LinkedIn.
- Learn more about the Healthy Workforce Institute on their LinkedIn and website.
- Check out the 33 Scripts Guide to Address Disruptive Behaviour here!
- Buy Renee Thompson’s book Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility here!
- Grab a copy of Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! here.
- Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here!
Have a question for Renee?
Email us at [email protected] to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode!
Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases.
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