3 Thoughts on Creating Safe Spaces and Psychological Safety

Join Lee as he talks about the critical concepts of psychological safety and safe spaces within organisations. Drawing from his recent experiences delivering training to diverse groups from various cultures, Lee emphasises the importance of creating environments where individuals feel secure to share their thoughts and ideas. He highlights key takeaways from his sessions, such as the value of silent brainstorming to ensure equal participation and the significance of asking follow-up questions to demonstrate genuine interest in others. Lee advocates for connecting on a human level and fostering an atmosphere where everyone feels empowered to contribute, ultimately leading to more effective teamwork and innovation.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Importance of Psychological Safety: Creating an environment where individuals feel psychologically safe is crucial for encouraging open communication and sharing of ideas. This involves both internal and external factors that contribute to a person's comfort in expressing themselves.

2. Silent Brainstorming: Implementing silent brainstorming sessions allows everyone to have an equal opportunity to share their thoughts without being overshadowed by dominant voices. This method fosters inclusivity and ensures that all perspectives are considered.

3. Asking the Second Question: Engaging in deeper conversations by asking follow-up questions demonstrates genuine interest and care. This practice not only strengthens relationships but also encourages individuals to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings.

4. Human Connection: Fostering connections on a human level is essential. Using relatable icebreakers, such as asking about what someone had for dinner, can help individuals feel more comfortable and open up in group settings.

5. Adaptability in Communication: Recognising that people have different communication styles is vital. Adapting your approach based on the individuals present can enhance the effectiveness of interactions and ensure that everyone feels valued and heard.

BEST MOMENTS

"Many organizations aspire to create environments that encourage psychological safety for their individuals, but also creating safe spaces." 

"Silent brainstorming allowed the individuals the same space, the same time, the same opportunity to share their thinking." 

"We need to take this into personal conversations as well as business or coaching conversations because it demonstrates that we care." 

"Psychological safety, providing safe spaces is key to connecting with people but it comes down to how we go about doing it." 

"If you want people to share their thoughts, you need them to feel safe, but you also need to create the space for them to do it." 

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.