Keeping People Safe even when they work in high risk workspaces
Physical and emotional safety is not just about messaging safety and managing risk.
Beyond the systems and processes essential for safety, iterative safety improvements are only possible when we create a culture where leaders lead collective safety with psychological safety.
These are the three pillars that underpin the Safety Leadership programs I run
Pillar 1: Collective safety goals operating with psychological safety
Clarity over the collective goals ensures we maintain behaviours which serve the whole. For the high-performance safety we aspire to, there is a need for the whole team to work together. When communication is unlimited by interpersonal friction or interpersonal fear we have inclusive, safe, connected teams capable of shared responsibility and open, honest conversations.
Pillar 2: Leader self-management
For all leaders, the greatest tool they have at their disposal is themselves. When leaders are not in control of their own behaviours and emotions, they create a climate of risk. In addition, if leaders are beholden to the emotions they feel or the habits they have learnt they reduce their potential influence. Successful leaders choose the most suitable response instead of reacting unconsciously. Leadership of self is really how we lead others. Self-awareness is critical. This will help leaders role model the correct safety behaviours and influence using up-to-date leadership styles.
Pillar 3: Leader-led two-way communication
Sustainable high performance relies on two-way honest communication between leaders and their teams. Leaders who understand how to use trust create influence and enable psychological safety. Conversational excellence reduces the power imbalance of hierarchy and enables the openness required for elevated safety behaviours.
If you want to focus on safety for your colleagues or help your leaders boost safety behaviours, please reach out to find out more about the Safety Leadership programs on offer in 2024.
How we could work together
High-Performance Teaming programs for your team
Psychological safety for leaders in high-risk industries
Executive 1:1 program
Keynotes
If you want programs that go 'a little deeper'