PointUP sponsored an informative, interactive November 10 workshop regarding the importance of psychological safety in the workplace and shared simple ways to build trust among coworkers so that we are all valued and understood. The Zoom meeting had over 85 participants, including many members of leadership.

What is Psychological Safety?
Psychological safety is the belief that you won’t be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes. Workshop presenter Elise Gelwicks shared research showing the benefits of workplace psychological safety include increased innovation, workplace frustrations are reduced, team members are more motivated, and companies are actually more productive and profitable!

How to Build It
Building trust takes time, is hard work, and occurs with lots of micro steps, Elise says. Simple ways to take action include:

• Align on a common goal
• Be vulnerable and open – talk about your mistakes and your weaknesses.
• Exhibit active listening – nod your head when someone is talking or tilt your head to show interest.
• Take a real interest in team members – initiate conversations and ask about their interests

Bottom line – psychological safety is key to building a healthy company culture where employees feel valued and engaged.