HR research and advisory firm McLean & Company has emphasized the evolving need for psychological safety within modern workplaces, shifting the focus from mere physical safety to encompassing mental and emotional well-being.
According to the firm’s recent insights, future work environments require organizations to adopt a more holistic approach, accounting for the diverse experiences of different demographics.
The firm’s latest publication, “Primer: Psychological Safety in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Sessions,” is crafted to assist HR and people leaders in fostering an environment where psychological safety is prioritized. This safety allows all employees to express themselves, take risks, and present their authentic selves without fearing negative repercussions.
Elysca Fernandes, Director of HR Research & Advisory Services at McLean & Company, stressed the importance of understanding psychological safety’s multifaceted nature. “Establishing psychological safety in the workplace is more than a one-time initiative; it’s about recognizing that employees’ unique backgrounds impact their perceptions of safety,” Fernandes explained. She highlighted that diversity, equity, and inclusion discussions are crucial starting points to address these individual needs.
The primer, inspired by Timothy Clark’s Four Stages of Psychological Safety, offers a roadmap for building inclusive environments. These stages range from ensuring employees feel they belong, to fostering an atmosphere where they can challenge the status quo without fear. The guide also outlines practical tactics to implement psychological safety, focusing on organizational norms, leadership behaviors, and artifacts.
Organizations are encouraged to align these elements to create a culture where psychological safety is consistently supported. Actions such as setting ground rules for DEI sessions, encouraging leaders to demonstrate humility, and enforcing anti-discrimination policies are among the strategies recommended to nurture a safe and inclusive workplace.
McLean & Company’s latest resource, a part of their broader Introduction to Psychological Safety for HR, aims to equip organizations with the knowledge to create environments where every employee can thrive. The firm also offers free webinars, with some providing professional development credits, covering topics crucial for HR professionals today.
Media professionals seeking further information or expert commentary on workplace psychological safety, DEI, and other HR trends can reach out to Senior Communications Manager Kelsey King for research-backed insights.
As a division of the Info-Tech Research Group, McLean & Company continues to provide data-driven resources and methodologies to prepare organizations for the evolving workplace landscape.