E021_The Power of Language and Metaphor in Shaping Your Safety Culture

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Co-host: Andrew Burton joins Karin this week instead of Nuala, who is offshore at the time of this recording with limited internet. 

Andrew has worked with clients from the energy, construction, finance, legal and healthcare sectors.

Vastly experienced senior manager, recruiter, facilitator, presenter and coach. He has been responsible for the project management, development and delivery of staff development and recruitment programmes in the UK, Europe and Africa. These projects have, in the main, focused on leaders, leadership, culture change and safety.

In this episode, co-hosts Karin and Andrew discuss the importance of safety culture and the role of leaders in creating a positive vibe within their organisation. 

They explore how the pandemic forced businesses to pivot their strategies and embrace virtual platforms like Howspace, providing a safe and inclusive space for quieter individuals to participate and engage in group conversations.

The conversation underscores the importance of leaders granting permission and respecting diverse opinions, thoughts, and ideas, thereby tapping into the workforce's knowledge and wisdom. 

By allowing everyone to contribute, organisations can create a co-created and unique culture sustained over time.

Metaphors are a powerful tool for bringing different perspectives and getting people to talk about how things make them feel rather than just what needs to be done. Using a simple four-letter word like 'vibe' can significantly impact how people think and feel about their organisation's safety culture.

The episode concludes with a key takeaway for organisations and leaders: giving space for people to think, learn, and contribute is essential for building psychological safety within a team or organisation. 

Leaders should allow everyone to speak out in their own way, regardless of their position. By doing so, organisations can create a safety culture that supports the well-being and success of all team members.

Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn

Thanks for listening!

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This episode was produced under Safety Collaborations Limited and now continues as part of Karin Ovari Limited. While we are not currently releasing new episodes, the entire library remains active, and the topics covered are just as relevant today as when they were first recorded.

To learn more about my current work in leadership and communication, visit karinovari.com and the leadership community, The Supervisors Hub.

Connect with us on LinkedIn: Karin Ovari, Nuala Gage,

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Stay Safe, Stay Well
The Safety Collaborators