Understanding the concept behind psychological safety is the easy part–the real challenge is implementing new behaviors that foster this unique environment. We’ve rounded up four tips to help leaders at every stage of the journey.
1. Celebrate Diversity
Teams that embrace diversity are buzzing with creativity, connections, and confidence. To create an inclusive playing field, leaders should hire people with diverse backgrounds, acknowledge and encourage contributions and perspectives from all team members, and maintain a culture of mutual respect through all interactions. In doing so, team members see the value in their differences, allowing them to let go of the need to water down their ideas, accomplishments, or unique experiences that make them who they are.
At ICAgile, we are encouraged to view our work from a multicultural lens–from how we interact with each other to ensuring our content resonates with a global audience. Our small remote team, scattered across the U.S. & Canada, offers diverse perspectives on projects and problem-solving fueled by the unique stories that shape our worldview.
2. Offer Opportunities for Continuous Learning
Teams can promote learner safety by offering ample opportunities for continuous learning. For example, some organizations grant employees paid time off or a financial stipend to indulge team members' educational interests, like taking a course or attending a workshop to deepen their skills. Moreover, this knowledge is brought back into the organization so that when one team member grows, the whole team grows.
In addition to offering each employee an annual stipend for learning, prioritizing growth plans, and viewing mistakes as teaching moments, the ICAgile team participates in a monthly educational session called Facts & Snacks. In this meeting, a team member hosts a presentation that educates the rest of the group on a skill or function within their wheelhouse for an opportunity to broaden our collective intelligence.
3. Encourage Input From All Team Members
