How to create psychological safety with non-verbal expressions?

Have you ever found yourself in a situation when you asked a question or shared an idea during a meeting, and even before anyone responded, you could „somehow” sense that it wasn't well received?

When we decide whether or not to share or speak up, our brain assesses the environment for subtle clues, to ensure that it’s safe to do so. As human beings, our wiring drives us to seek signs of approval, as our survival evolutionarily depended on #belongingand acceptance.

We've been trained to scan and decode other people facial expressions and the underlying #emotions. We can pick on very subtle signs whether what we share is ok 😊  or not ok 🙄 Even a blank expression 😶 may convey a message of boredom or dismissal. 

Psychological safety is the number one predictor of #teameffectiveness* and the sense of a secure environment takes shape in a big part by non-verbal cues, because only 7% of all #communication is done through verbal communication. 

It is important to:

🔹verbally encourage different opinions
🔹appreciate another perspective
🔹amplify contributions etc.  

...and we should also pay attention to those micro, non-verbal expressions that may undermine #psychologicalsafety of those around us. 

Take note of the specific non-verbal expressions that could influence it ⬇ 

Pay attention to your face and body language, when someone shares their idea at the team meeting. 

Try relaxing your body, offer a smile, and simply listen.

*Source: Amy Edmondson „Fearless organizations”

#diversity #różnorodność