It is no secret that working in groups is on the rise and the ability to do so effectively is highly sought after. But what makes a group great? The answer may surprise you. Author Charles Duhigg, in a recent NYTimes article, chronicles the work of the "Aristotle Project." A team of statisticians, engineers, sociologists, and organizational psychologists was asked by Google to determine the basis for high performance of groups. The findings suggest that the most successful groups are those with high levels of "Psychological Safety."
Harvard Business School professor Amy Edmondson defines "Psychological Safety" as a sense of confidence that the other members in a group will not embarrass, reject or punish others for speaking up. Group members have diverse and valuable life experiences--embrace them! One of the benefits of working in groups is to get multiple perspectives on how to solve the same problem. When working in groups, encourage participation and make sure the group is judgment-free. Ensure that all members in the group are given a fair opportunity to engage in conversation and provide positive reinforcement for their contributions.
By focusing on improving Psychological Safety within your group, you will develop enthusiasm for one another's ideas and create a relaxed atmosphere that allows members to feel energized and excited. Project Aristotle is a reminder that successful groups focus on more than just intellectual rigor -- they also focus on emotional well-being.