Host Jay Culbert interviews Josh Russell, a Senior EH&S Manager at the Janelia Research Campus and co-host of the Illusion of Safety podcast. Josh shares insights on blending safety and facility management. He emphasizes shifting from 'safety cops' to facilitators or concierges to foster innovation and efficiency.
Josh discusses the importance of building and maintaining trust and communication through relationship-building, empathy, and active engagement. He has also developed training curriculums focusing on leadership and collaboration. Josh stresses that a supportive network and caring about others' experiences are crucial for success. He encourages safety professionals to be resources, engage in empathetic communication, and involve others in safety decisions.
Takeaways:
- Building Relationships: Prioritize building strong relationships with your team. Establishing trust and rapport results in better cooperation and a more harmonious work environment. Practicing empathy and engaging in casual conversations can go a long way in forming solid connections.
- Effective Communication: Ensure that your communication is clear, consistent, and direct. Miscommunication can lead to errors and misunderstandings, so it's important to articulate your message effectively. Use face-to-face interactions whenever possible, as it conveys sincerity and builds stronger connections.
- Lead by Example: Show your team that you are committed to the same standards you expect from them. Being visible and engaged in their processes demonstrates your dedication and fosters respect and motivation within the team.
- Empathy in Leadership: Demonstrate genuine care and empathy towards your team's challenges and experiences. Understand their perspectives and recognize them as experts in their fields. This boosts morale and encourages a collaborative environment.
- Innovative Problem-Solving: Encourage your team to think outside the box and develop creative solutions to challenges. Partner with them to co-create solutions that are effective and innovative, rather than imposing top-down directives.
- Providing Support: Make yourself available as a resource. Be proactive in assisting your team with their needs, whether it's through providing tools, facilitating training, or simply being a listening ear. This reciprocity strengthens relationships and encourages a supportive organizational culture.
- Follow-Through: Consistently fulfill your promises and commitments. When you follow through on your word, your team learns to trust and rely on you. This reliability is fundamental to building a strong leadership reputation and fostering a dependable team.
Quote of the Show:
- “I wanted to instill that muscle memory and mindset of thoughtful consideration. It's crucial to observe people thinking through their work comprehensively and from the perspective of others.”
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