Psychological Safety (HBR Emotional Intelligence Series)

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The Hidden Power of Workplace Rituals

By Erica Keswin

Leaders are under enormous pressure to address societal issues; maintain an active diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy; and keep employees connected to each other and to the company’s mission. And since employees rightly expect to be able to bring their feelings—big and small—to work, supporting employees during cultural trauma and strife is every leader’s job. It’s not always obvious how to address these issues at work, especially when leaders aren’t necessarily trained or experienced in navigating such sensitive, emotional topics. One way to provide the support employees expect is through rituals.

I studied the impact of workplace rituals on individuals, teams, and the bottom line ...