This Working Life Validation is a skill for work and life
Sep 26, 2025
Dr. Caroline Fleck, a licensed psychologist and corporate consultant, dives into the art of validation in the workplace. She explains how validation signals care and understanding, contrasting it with praise, and emphasizing its role in building psychological safety. Common misconceptions are addressed, highlighting that validation is not agreement but a precursor to influence. Caroline shares practical skills, including attending questions for addressing complaints and exploring underperformance, ultimately showcasing that validation strengthens relationships and enhances influence at work.
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Validation Is A Presence Signal
- Validation communicates: "You're there, I get it, and I care."
- That signal makes people feel seen without requiring agreement.
Validation Complements Praise
- Praise addresses work; validation addresses the person and their experience.
- Combining both strengthens psychological safety and team loyalty.
Validate Before You Disagree
- Validate feelings without agreeing with the idea first.
- Do the validation step before proposing alternatives to be more influential.
