Steelcase Work Better Podcast recently recorded an episode featuring Constance Noonan Hadley, Research Associate Professor of Management and Organizations, discussing ways to promote a culture of psychological safety and well-being in the workplace.
Hadley emphasizes that in times of uncertainty, such as post-pandemic, employees may become more silent and hesitant to speak up. This silence can hinder progress, as employees may refrain from offering ideas, admitting mistakes, or making connections. She highlights the connection between psychological safety and employee well-being, especially in combating loneliness in remote or hybrid work environments.
“So you can see how psychological safety is just a theme that keeps coming back because it is the foundation for when people can step out of their comfort zone and do something that helps them and helps the organization,” Hadley adds.
Creating psychologically safe workplaces that encourage open communication, relationship-building, and collaboration, leads to both individual and organizational success.