According to studies, psychological safety is the most important factor for team effectiveness and means “a team climate in which we feel safe to take interpersonal risks” (Prof. A. Edmondson). In such a climate, we feel safe to raise ideas, questions, concerns or mistakes without being punished or shamed. We don't wear a metaphorical mask, but feel comfortable appearing as a whole person. We feel accepted and comfortable as individuals and are therefore ready to make a full contribution. We can develop our full potential as a team or organization and are highly adaptable. Participative forms of collaboration such as self-organization in particular require a high level of psychological security in order to succeed.
So it's worth investing in psychological safety - but how?
Many
factors interact: Collaboration structures and practices, organizational culture, leadership behaviour, sense of purpose, communication and conflict skills, individual capacity for nervous system regulation, ... It makes sense to take a close look at what weakens psychological
safety in a specific case and then initiate changes in an open, iterative process.
Would you like support on your way to greater psychological safety?
Let's have a chat. Strengthening psychological safety is a matter close to my heart.