Fostering Psychological Safety in Teams - Build Trust Through Authentic Leadership
The last two weeks, I wrote about what psychological safety is and the abbreviated version of how to attain it. Now I’m delving into each component of how. These posts are by no means the totality of psychological safety. You’ll take what resonates and add your own values. If you’d like to discuss this further, schedule a time.
Building trust through authentic leadership requires a combination of self-awareness, vulnerability, and consistency. Here’s how you can foster trust in teams through leading with authenticity:
1. Lead with Self-Awareness
Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and emotional triggers.
Seek feedback regularly and demonstrate a willingness to grow.
Align your leadership style with your core values.
2. Show Vulnerability & Transparency
Admit when you don’t have all the answers—this builds credibility.
Share personal challenges and lessons learned to humanize leadership.
Communicate openly about decisions, including the "why" behind them.
3. Follow Through on Commitments
Say what you mean and do what you say—consistency is key.
If circumstances change, explain why and reset expectations.
Avoid overpromising; under-promise and over-deliver instead.
4. Demonstrate Empathy & Active Listening
Practice deep listening—listen to understand, not just to respond.
Validate people’s emotions before offering solutions.
Check in on team members regularly beyond just work-related tasks.
5. Empower & Include Others
Give credit generously and acknowledge contributions.
Encourage decision-making autonomy rather than micromanaging.
Foster an inclusive environment where all voices are valued.
6. Model Accountability & Integrity
Own your mistakes and make amends when needed.
Hold yourself and others to the same ethical standards.
Encourage honest conversations, even when they are difficult.
By consistently embodying these traits, you’ll create a foundation of trust that enhances collaboration and performance.
