Safe Zone

One aspect of my work that gives me tremendous satisfaction involves working with people who want to improve their presentation and communication skills. The learning is particularly effective in a group setting where people have the opportunity to work together and see the amazing transformation that takes place.

As we often do, my colleague and friend, Dr. Shirley Garrett, and I recently spent the better part of a week working with a group of bright, interesting, high-level executives. We have discovered that even people who are experienced, mature professionals are often anxious – even terrified – at the prospect of presenting their thoughts, ideas, and information in front of an audience. The thought of “putting themselves out there” and being vulnerable in front of either a group of colleagues or strangers is downright scary. Because of this, Shirley and I purposefully work to create what we call a “safe zone” – a supportive, caring environment where people can build courage, try new things, and open themselves up to candid feedback.

Everyone needs a “safe zone” – a place where you can be yourself, spread your wings, develop your potential, try something new, express your opinions, exercise your creativity, share ideas, practice, learn, stretch, make mistakes, fall flat, get a do-over, and, thus, grow.

As each of our groups tend to do, this latest assembly of executives walked away with improved presentation skills, new insights into communication, and a variety of tips, tools, and strategies for effectively working with their team members. They also walked away with an insight that perhaps they didn’t expect. One of the most important lessons they learned was the value of making their workplaces “safe zones”.

Here’s why a safe zone is valuable and how you can make your office – or home – an environment that brings out the best in people.

Listen. Hear folks out. Everyone wants, needs, and deserves to be heard.
Encourage. Be about lifting up rather than cutting down.
Be open to the ideas and opinions of others. Chances are your way may not be the only way…or the best way.
Make it fun. Laughter helps people relax, eases tension, and encourages participation and learning.
Champion second chances. Mistakes happen.
When you mess up, fess up. Remember…mistakes happen, right?
Withhold judgment. Gather the facts; learn the whole story before criticizing. Look for the intention behind the action.
And, to use one of Shirley’s and my most frequently-repeated phrases, practice being both candid and kind.

As a leader, colleague, parent, partner, neighbor, teacher, spouse and friend, speak truth, but speak the truth in love.

Create a “safe zone” – a nurturing environment – for the occupants of your circle of influence. You’ll see people flourish and perform in ways that will astound you…and them. And you’ll nurture great teams that produce great results