Maslow’s well-known Hierarchy of Needs places safety just above survival. Recent social movements such as Me Too and the Great Resignation have brought employee dissatisfaction with their working circumstances to light. Thousands of people have left the workforce. A majority of workers who quit a job in 2021 cited low pay, no opportunities for advancement and feeling disrespected.
Much has been written about psychological safety’s role in improving workplace wellness. To weather uncertainty, organizations need to make psychological safety a strategic priority, creating a culture where employees can comfortably raise concerns, contribute ideas, and share unique perspectives.
Three cultural dimensions are critical for resilience:
- Integrity: Ethical leadership and courageous candor
- Innovation: Fearless collaborative creativity
- Inclusion: Authentic respect and belonging
These sustain business continuity, competitiveness, and growth — the intersection of these three dimensions forms the core of a psychologically safe culture.
A closer look at what has happened to the labor force can better be described as "The Great Reshuffle" because hiring rates have outpaced quit rates since November of 2020. So, many workers are quitting their jobs – but many are getting re-hired elsewhere.
Why are some employers able to recruit while other struggle?
One reason is a supportive workplace culture, one that meets the Safety, Belonging and Esteem needs of employees. A positive workplace culture is compassionate.
With hybrid and remote workplaces, our emotional culture is more relevant than ever. While leaders and organizations need to create workplace policies that make us feel valued and appreciated, each one of us can contribute to building an inclusive environment.
Do you want your organization to be seen as a great place to work? Contact SWB Consulting Services for a free consultation to discuss how we can engage your team.
Resources
- Me Too Movement website
- Pew Research Center - Majority of workers who quit a job in 2021 cite low pay, no opportunities for advancement, feeling disrespected
- Bureau of Labor Statistics - The Employment Situation
- Care.com - This is how much child care costs in 2022
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce - Understanding America’s Labor Shortage: The Most Impacted Industries
- Harvard Business Review - How to Build a Great Work Culture: Our Favorite Reads
- SHRM - Ask HR: Can I Get My Manager to Change Her Style?
- Harvard Business Review - Resilient Organizations Make Psychological Safety a Strategic Priority
