Psychological Safety
Create environment where all ideas are welcomed without judgment or ridicule.
Explanation
Psychological safety is the foundation of effective brainstorming. When team members fear judgment, criticism, or ridicule, they self-censor their most creative ideas. Research shows that teams with high psychological safety generate more diverse and innovative ideas. Creating this environment requires deliberate effort to establish norms and behaviors that encourage risk-taking and vulnerability.
Real-World Example
Good facilitation: 'All ideas welcome, even half-baked ones.' 'What seems impossible that could work?' 'Build on that strange idea.' Bad signs: Eye rolls, 'That's unrealistic,' interrupting, dismissive body language, senior person shooting down ideas. High safety teams share wild ideas that lead to breakthrough innovations.
How to Apply
Establish ground rules explicitly: no criticism during ideation, all ideas have value, build don't bash. Model vulnerability by sharing your own wild ideas first. Encourage seemingly impossible suggestions. Address negative behaviors immediately but gently. Mix up hierarchies—junior people present first. Celebrate unusual ideas even if not selected.