Psychological Safety for High-Performing Teams

Google's highest performing teams were found to have five predictors of success: psychological safety, dependability, structure and clarity, meaning, and impact. This article emphasizes the importance of psychological safety, which is defined as a climate where people feel safe to take risks and be vulnerable. This results from beliefs that mistakes will not be held against them, team members can bring up problems without fear, and each individual's unique skills and talents are valued. Building psychological safety includes admitting fallibility, embracing vulnerability, using a growth mindset, bringing curiosity and empathy, recognizing and appreciating others, and engaging in positive conflict. By implementing these behaviors, organizations can create a culture of psychological safety that promotes innovation.