What does psychological safety look like at work?
Words are great. Understanding the behaviours associated with those words is better.
In this monthly series, we’re going beyond those cliched HR platitudes and “aspirational” posters on the office wall to find out what those important aspects really look for employees. I’ll be proposing a question to you across the Relationships at Work platforms on what a particular topic looks like at work. It’s not just about what it actually feels like but what are the actions employees associate with these terms.
When it comes to psychological safety, it seems a lot of it comes down to diversity and inclusion.
Thank you to everyone who participated. And feel free to answer as well in the comments below.
To me, psychological safety is about creating an environment where people can express how they feel without fear of losing their job or being judged for diverse views. Is there any other way to lead teams? Answer: Nope!
– Stacy Sherman
I ❤️ this @RussLoL question. To me, #psychologicalsafety is about creating an environment where people can express how they feel without fear of losing their job or being judged for diverse views. Is there any other way to lead teams?
Answer: Nope! https://t.co/TwSpy6t0w9— Stacy Sherman ~ #DoingCXRight (@stacysherman) April 23, 2022
That’s an excellent question that I don’t hear people asking. Physical safety is one thing, but psychological safety is necessary for authenticity and the kind of vulnerability a strong team demands. Psychological safety is knowing if you mess up, it’s not the end of the world. This is a low bar, but no gaslighting, no backstabbing. Leadership that ensures safe spaces for honest and frank discussions and welcomes feedback and constructive criticism.
– Lynn Hughes
Psychological safety is knowing if you mess up, it’s not the end of the world. This is a low bar, but no gaslighting, no backstabbing. Leadership that ensures safe spaces for honest and frank discussions and welcomes feedback and constructive criticism.
— Lynn Meador (@WestofDodge) April 18, 2022
For me it looks like a place where everyone can participate as their authentic self, have their domain expertise integrated with thoughtfulness, and feel like they are working as a team with common goals. – Justin Breaux
For me it looks like a place where everyone can participate as their authentic self, have their domain expertise integrated with thoughtfulness, and feel like they are working as a team with common goals.
— Justin H. S. Breaux (@MOQPhiKing) April 18, 2022
Being creative, innovative, & sharing feedback without fear. Being your true self at work. – Erin Hallet
Being creative, innovative, & sharing feedback without fear. Being your true self at work.
— Erin Hallett (@EEParis) April 10, 2022
Page DeWolfe
To me, it is in part freedom from micro-aggressions, harassment, or bullying and in part understanding of and accommodation for any mental health issues. Being able to be open about depression or ADHD or what have you and being supported instead of disciplined.
Ayana Horton
It means not having to assimilate in the way you think, behave, or look. It means that my professional self is valued in the workplace just like anyone else’s professional self is valued.
Nicole Folk
Being able to say that I disagree to anyone I work with and it being respected.
Suzanne Babcock
Being able to get through an entire shift without feeling the need to break down due to daily anxiety caused by a toxic coworker.
Alexandra Regina
Being able to say what I need to feel safe during an active pandemic and having it honoured and supported
I’ve never had a 9-5 job where this existed, but people being treated with the same respect and consideration regardless of their position would be a great start.
Gloria Valle
Feeling safe to be honest if you disagree with a decision that is counter productive.
