E26 Fostering, Not Forcing: How Leaders Create Safe Teams

In this conversation, Dr. Kortni discusses the importance of psychological safety in the workplace, emphasizing that it cannot simply be legislated but must be cultivated through actions and culture. She outlines practical tools for leaders to foster an environment of openness and trust, highlighting the significance of messaging, modeling, and mentoring. The discussion also touches on the role of leadership in creating a climate where team members feel safe to express themselves without fear of repercussions.

Takeaways

Psychological safety is a cultural practice, not just a policy.
Leaders must model the behavior they want to see.
Encouraging openness and honesty is crucial for team dynamics.
Mistakes should be seen as part of the learning process.
Feedback should focus on both performance and interpersonal dynamics.
Surveys can gauge psychological safety but are not the complete solution.
Building trust takes time and consistent effort.
Fear in the workplace hinders effectiveness and creativity.
Compassionate leadership fosters a safe environment.
Wellbeing is a leader's most important responsibility.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Psychological Safety
03:59 Cultivating a Culture of Safety
07:15 The Role of Leadership in Psychological Safety
09:59 New Chapter

Links Mentioned 

What People Get Wrong About Psychological Safety