If you’re aiming to build a high-performing team, start by creating an environment where everyone feels safe speaking up.
People grow best when their voices are valued and respected.
Here are 10 practical steps to create psychological safety in your team:
1. Learn from Mistakes, Don’t Punish Them
Mistakes are opportunities to teach and improve, not blame or embarrass.
2. Admit When You Don’t Know Something
Being open about your knowledge gaps encourages others to step up and contribute.
3. Listen Fully, Interrupt Less
Give your team the gift of your full attention. Resist the urge to interrupt or respond with instant objections.
4. Seek Genuine Feedback
Ask for feedback regularly and honestly, including the tougher conversations.
5. Celebrate Curiosity as Much as Answers
Encourage questions and exploration. Curiosity fuels innovation.
6. Include the Quiet Voices
Make deliberate efforts to invite perspectives from team members who are less outspoken.
7. Reward Integrity and Thoughtfulness, Not Just Confidence
Value and acknowledge honesty, humility, and continuous growth in your team.
8. Lead with Openness
Share your own struggles and vulnerabilities. It makes it easier for others to be authentic.
9. Value Constructive Disagreement
Encourage different opinions without mistaking them for a lack of loyalty. Diverse views sharpen team decisions.
10. Make Kindness Your Default Setting
A respectful, supportive environment enables people to perform at their best.
The outcome of these simple actions?
• Stronger trust
• Smarter ideas
• A team that’s engaged and motivated to succeed
Psychological safety isn’t optional. It’s fundamental to lasting success.
Which of these steps does your team need to focus on most right now? – Ali Aydan
Ali Aydan: Want a high-performing team
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