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The Modern Manager

350: Why Validation is the Missing Key to Stronger Relationships at Work with Caroline Fleck

Mar 25, 2025
In this discussion, Dr. Caroline Fleck, a licensed psychologist and corporate consultant, dives into the profound power of validation in the workplace. She clarifies that validation goes beyond praise, focusing on understanding and acceptance of individuals. Dr. Fleck shares practical techniques for managers to implement validation, especially during challenging conversations. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of intuition and psychological safety for enhancing team dynamics and fostering deeper connections among colleagues.
31:17

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Validation is a profound communication skill that fosters acceptance, understanding, and psychological safety, enhancing workplace relationships beyond simple praise.
  • Employing validation techniques during difficult conversations can reduce defensiveness and promote constructive dialogue, ultimately improving team collaboration and performance.

Deep dives

The Power of Validation

Validation is a critical skill that goes beyond simple praise or appreciation; it is about communicating understanding and acceptance. Instead of telling someone they did a good job, validation involves acknowledging a person's feelings and experiences as valid, creating a deeper connection. This process enhances psychological safety in the workplace, leading to improved team performance, employee retention, and overall job satisfaction. By making team members feel heard and valued, managers can foster a culture where individuals are more likely to thrive and contribute effectively.

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