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How can I contribute to a psychologically safe team environment? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

• 0:00
  SPEAKER_00: Psychological safety is a belief that you can speak up, ask a question, share an idea, or admit a mistake without worrying that you will be embarrassed, judged, or punished, and it's about feeling safe to take small social risks about the people you work with.
• 0:15
  SPEAKER_00: Now, a useful way to think about this is that each interaction is a chance to show the people around you that their voice is welcome.
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  SPEAKER_00: That can start with how you listen and giving your full attention when a colleague is speaking, letting them finish and even asking a follow-up question to show that you are interested.
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  SPEAKER_00: And when someone shares a view that differs from yours, get curious about how they see it before you respond.
• 0:37
  SPEAKER_00: You can also lead by example.
• 0:39
  SPEAKER_00: So earn your mistakes openly and share what you learn from them.
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  SPEAKER_00: Ask for feedback and thank people when they give it.
• 0:45
  SPEAKER_00: As seeing someone else being honest often makes it feel safer for the rest of the team to do the same.
• 0:51
  SPEAKER_00: And you might want to take a moment to reflect on your own habits.
• 0:54
  SPEAKER_00: So think about a time you felt really listened to at work.
• 0:57
  SPEAKER_00: So what did that other person do, and which one of those things could you offer to someone else as well?
• 1:03
  SPEAKER_00: Now, practical ways to support yourself with this is to start with choosing one or two small actions to begin with.
• 1:09
  SPEAKER_00: So you might invite a quieter colleague to share their thoughts in a meeting, or thank someone who's raised a concern.
• 1:15
  SPEAKER_00: You could also check in with a teammate who seems maybe a bit stretched or a bit stressed, and if a disagreement comes up, address it calmly and early and focus on the issue itself so that everyone can keep their dignity.
• 1:26
  SPEAKER_00: Also be mindful of how you respond to ideas because a dismissive comment or a joke at someone else's expense can quickly make people go quiet.
• 1:35
  SPEAKER_00: And also it's helpful to respect people's different backgrounds and ways of working and make space for them.
• 1:41
  SPEAKER_00: But if you do notice behaviour that could be bullying, such as repeated put-downs or exclusion, name what you have seen to a trusted colleague, your manager or HR, and check in with a person that's affected as well.
• 1:52
  SPEAKER_00: Now, if you do find it hard to speak up or the atmosphere in your team is affecting your mood, sleep or confidence, it might be worth speaking with your GP or the therapist, or if your workplace has one, you can also contact their employee assistance program that can also offer confidential well being support.
• 2:08
  SPEAKER_00: Now you can refer back to the app's resources on psychological safety for further support, and if you are thinking about harming yourself or feel unsafe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.