In 2012, Google researched the key ingredients to high-performing teams.  ‘Project Aristotle,’ analysed 180 teams and 250 team attributes over a 2-year period to identify the core characteristics of a winning workforce.  They discovered that teams with the highest engagement, elevated productivity, the greatest sense of well-being and belonging, and most innovation had one single quality in common – Psychological Safety.

What is Psychological Safety?

Psychological safety is a culture where all individuals feel safe to speak up, discuss ideas, contribute their thoughts, give candid feedback, take interpersonal risks, report incidents or faults, and admit mistakes without fear of reprisals from colleagues or superiors.  Psychological Safety has been confirmed through years of research as the number one predictor of high performing teams and safer teams. 

A work environment with high psychological safety is one where everyone feels safe to: 

  •   Speak up & share ideas 
  •   Admit & learn from mistakes 
  •   Ask for & offer help
  •   Ask questions & challenge the status quo

Why Psychological Safety Matters

In a world that is volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous, the ability to foster a psychologically safe climate must become a leadership priority for companies who want to keep up in the global competitive race.

Without Psychological Safety, it becomes incredibly difficult to innovate. When people don’t feel safe to share their ideas, disagree or give feedback, creativity and innovation take a back seat. Without psychological safety, it’s an uphill battle to develop new business ideas, stand out from your competitors and attract the best talent. 

In safety-sensitive environments, such as aviation, construction or mining, the ability to speak-up quickly and freely to ensure corrective safety measures could save a life.

Teams thrive when there are high levels of Psychological Safety.  In a team of diverse individuals, the ability to freely share knowledge, discuss ideas, admit mistakes and give feedback truly creates an inclusive and valued team environment. 


I’m a facilitator with The Humanology Group, delivering Psychological Safety and Growth Mindset workshops in the energy and mining sectors. And I also facilitate national leadership development and training programs on Psychological Safety and a Growth Mindset for ACCPA, Australia’s peak body for aged and community care providers.

 

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