What defines a thriving workplace culture? In my latest Inspiring Conversation with organisational psychologist Shannon Roberts Gibbs, we explored the profound impact that authentic leadership has on shaping an organisation’s environment, engagement, and overall success.
With years of experience in leadership development, Shannon has worked with executives to transform toxic workplaces into thriving, high-performing environments. “One of the biggest challenges,” she explains, “is when leadership ignores or tolerates toxic behaviors. It creates a ripple effect where fear and disengagement spread through the organisation.”
At the heart of a strong organisational culture is psychosocial safety—a workplace where employees feel valued, heard, and supported. Shannon emphasises that this isn’t about ticking compliance boxes but fostering an environment where people feel safe to speak up without fear of retaliation.
The Role of Leadership in Workplace Culture
Leaders set the tone for the entire organisation. When they model transparency, inclusivity, and accountability, employees feel more engaged and committed. Shannon highlights key strategies for building a healthy workplace:
- Invest in leadership development – Equip leaders with the skills to navigate complex workplace dynamics.
- Prioritise open communication – Encourage honest feedback and active listening.
- Address toxic behaviours – Tolerating negativity can erode trust and productivity.
- Lead by example – Leaders who model the right behaviours create an environment where employees feel motivated and safe.
The Rising Importance of Psychosocial Safety
One of the most pressing issues in today’s workplaces is psychosocial safety. Research shows that workplaces with poor leadership and toxic cultures experience higher turnover, burnout, and even legal risks. Shannon points to alarming statistics, including the rising cost of psychosocial injury claims, which are predicted to increase four to five times over the next two decades.
“When employees feel psychologically unsafe, they disengage,” Shannon explains. “The best organisations proactively address stress, burnout, and work overload before they lead to serious issues.”
To create a resilient organisational culture, leaders must take a proactive approach by identifying risks, implementing mental health initiatives, and ensuring workplace policies align with employee well-being.
Authentic Leadership Drives Lasting Change
Shannon’s experience proves that culture isn’t just a set of values on a wall—it’s shaped by daily decisions and behaviours. “For executives committed to shaping a positive workplace culture, the best investment you can make is in your leadership,” she says.
If you’re looking to strengthen your workplace culture, lead with authenticity, and foster a thriving organisational culture, don’t miss this interview. You can listen to it in full here on Spotify or via Vimeo here.
You can connect with Shannon on LinkedIn or visit her website to find out more about what she does.