I had a coworker who rolled his eyes when I talked and would “humph” under his breath. I remember feeling insecure and afraid to speak up. This was almost 20 years ago, and the problem was a lack of psychological safety on our team. I want to prevent this problem on your teams because it ruins productivity and innovation.

Psychological safety is a workplace culture where we can share ideas, ask questions, admit mistakes, and experiment without fear.

For the past 10 years, leaders and organizations have relied on me to improve their workplaces and that is why I am thrilled to share my news!

Expressive! Communication Consulting & Training launched psychological safety training on March 25 with a webinar delivered to people from around the world (India, Italy, Ireland, Barbados, Toronto, Calgary, British Columbia, Ottawa, Minneapolis, and many more).

This month begins a series of articles on psychological safety, and I think the best place to start is to define it.

Psychological safety is not:

  • being nice.
  • seeking agreement.
  • offering endless praise or unconditional support.
  • permission to say what you want, when you want, and how you want.
  • immunity from consequences.*
  • lowering performance standards.*

Psychological safety is a workplace culture where:

  • productive disagreement is the norm.
  • employees aren’t held back by interpersonal fear.
  • there is space to explore and produce best work for the whole.
  • a team can focus on achieving shared goals rather than on self-protection.*
  • we can share ideas, ask questions, admit mistakes, and experiment without fear.

Wondering if and how a lack of psychological safety is hurting your team? I can help. Just reach out.

*adapted from The Fearless Organization, by Amy Edmondson