When we build better teams, we tend to have better work. But sometimes the traditional team-building approach can leave people feeling more separated from one another. University of Sydney Researchers, Julien Pollack and Petr Matous, say that this is because we tend "to gravitate towards those we know." It's great to strengthen already strong relationships, but, if we want to increase trust and familiarity, two things present in successful teams, we must create what Pollack and Matous call "psychological safety."
"Research suggests psychological safety is crucial in the work environment. There is much more to team success than simply focusing on the task at hand. Team members need to talk regularly, and be comfortable raising difficult issues," they write. To achieve this comfort the pair has adopted a spin on the 36 questions that lead to love.
Essentially, the idea is to pair up people across a given group and allow them to do this exercise that involves a conversation lasting just over an hour. You work through a series of 36 increasingly personal questions. Here's an example:
The questions start with relatively safe topics, like:
“Given the choice of anyone in the world, whom would you want as a dinner guest?”
Near the end of the session, they’re like this:
“When did you last cry in front of another person? By yourself?
Getting personal in the workplace isn't for everyone, but Pollack and Matous admit that this can be risky. But, for teams where members are willing to open up, and even endure a little discomfort, they encourage giving it a try. Their research has shown promising results from the practice.
Consult your HR manager before having employees do this. Might accidentally cross legal lines.
expound on this point, because I think you might be over thinking this. additionally, never, never, never go to HR for anything but copies of your w-2, or pay stub; they're not your friend.
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what's with all the team building and collaboration news stories lately?
Hey FRaC, just another area of coverage
I wondered myself, thought perhaps someone had started a MBA program. That being said have found some of the content applicable/of interest, in my own professional life.
No MBA program. Just content our readers find relevant to their professional work in architecture. Glad to hear some has been relatable for you.
Consult your HR manager before having employees do this. Might accidentally cross legal lines.
expound on this point, because I think you might be over thinking this. additionally, never, never, never go to HR for anything but copies of your w-2, or pay stub; they're not your friend.
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