A psychologically safe workplace is a must. When you feel psychologically safe your physical safety will also be valued and protected.
Searching for a job is similar to looking for a romantic partner. You make a list of must-haves. Negotiables and non-negotiables. When you see red flags you say no thank you and turn around and walk away. Being in a relationship that is not psychologically safe would be a major red flag that any healthy person would address with professional help or walk away from.
A Psychologically Safe Workplace Starts With The Right Culture
Employees expect a certain culture when looking for a job. Each person is looking for unique qualities that they value. A psychologically safe workplace is at the top of the list. Knowing your voice matters is crucial. Gone are the days where leaders get to bark orders and take advantage of their teams. Overworked and underpaid is not cutting it anymore.
A psychologically safe workplace may be different for each individual. Some people do have more specific values that feel safe for them. However there are a few that are more universal.
Factors That Create A Psychologically Safe Workspace
Putting specific guidelines and boundaries in place
Holding people accountable for the way they communicate with team members, co-workers and even customers is important. A standard procedure to follow when conflict arises helps to protect the boundaries of all people involved.
When a variety of personalities are working together conflict will arise at some point. You must feel safe to address your concerns. Additionally you must feel safe when being confronted with conflict.
Environment of openness
A culture of openness allows honest communication. Questions and concerns can be addressed without fear of judgment or retribution. In a psychologically safe environment a person can bring up both work and personal issues and expect resolution. If mental health is being compromised you should be able to talk to leadership about it without fear that your job is at risk.
Appropriate help is available when needed
Whether it be a mentor you speak to to set goals. A mediator to help manage conflict. Or a professional counselor or therapist. Address issues head on with appropriate help available.
Recognizing workplace trauma
Not only is it important to create a culture of safety. It is important to be able to recognize workplace trauma. “Workplace trauma occurs when employees experience trauma at work. This could be a one-time event, like a workplace accident. Or it could be ongoing stressful events (like unrealistic expectations around their workload or an abusive boss).”
Educate your staff on what trauma looks like. The goal is to avoid workplace trauma in the first place. Preventing and addressing workplace trauma helps contribute to a more psychologically safe workplace.
Physical safety is birthed out of emotional and psychological safety. Start your safety plan today with Alert Protection Services
