Let’s delve into a topic that might not always be top of mind but holds immense significance in the realm of effective teamwork: the physical considerations for team engagement. As we navigate the busy world of team meetings and collaborations, the layout of the room often takes a backseat, overshadowed by the urgency of agendas and attendees. However, we'd like to underscore just how crucial the physical setup is for fostering a culture of collaboration and building psychological safety within teams.
Dr. Amy Edmondson's emphasis on psychological safety is foundational to effective team dynamics. It goes beyond just ensuring equitable voices; it extends to the way team members interact, make eye contact, and express nonverbal cues. When psychological safety is established, teams experience higher levels of trust and vulnerability, paving the way for open idea sharing and constructive challenges. The physical arrangement of the room plays a pivotal role in shaping this environment.
To learn more about psychological safety, watch this Tedx with Amy Edmondson
Let's paint a familiar picture: team members scattered across various seating options, some facing away from each other, some behind others, laptops open or closed. These scenarios can hinder effective communication and compromise psychological safety. The solution? A simple adjustment to the physical layout – setting everyone up in a circle. Circles encourage eye contact, eliminate hierarchy, and ensure everyone's presence is equally valued.
Creating an inclusive environment extends to how meeting notes are managed. Instead of leaving them confined to individual laptops, projecting them on a screen visible to all adds a focal point for the team. This not only aids in maintaining focus but also facilitates nonverbal communication, such as nods and smiles, crucial for building trust.
In the digital era, where online meetings have become the norm, the physical space still plays a role. Leaving cameras on during virtual meetings ensures visibility and helps replicate some aspects of in-person engagement. However, clarity on technology usage expectations is paramount – whether online or in person, setting guidelines on device use ensures everyone is on the same page.
For teams involving external stakeholders, such as parents or partners, thoughtful consideration of their physical placement is key. Placing them in the circle alongside a familiar team member fosters inclusivity and comfort. For parents entering a room full of professionals discussing their child, creating a welcoming and non-intimidating space is crucial.
We have designed a team meeting space checklist, encompassing various physical and technological aspects to consider. This checklist, accompanied by detailed resources, offers a comprehensive guide for teams aiming to optimize their meeting spaces for collaboration. To access this resource, click here to receive your free download.
The physical setup of a meeting space is not a mere afterthought; it's a strategic element influencing team dynamics and collaboration. By paying attention to the physical considerations outlined in this podcast, teams can create environments that not only encourage collaboration but also foster trust, openness, and psychological safety.
If you have resources developed related to the design of collaborative spaces, we would love to see them! Email or .
What Should You Be Considering When Designing a Space for Staff Collaboration
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