A lot is written about the importance of organizations and leaders creating psychologically safe cultures. While I have no empirical data, I can tell you from experience the strongest, safest and most productive teams I’ve been on, or worked with, have had a lot of nicknames within the group.
A nickname is a term of endearment. It signals a sense of familiarity and affection. Nicknames galvanize relationships because they represent trust and safety.
Nicknames in my opinion belong in the workplace! One way to create psychologically safe cultures is through nicknames. It’s not unprofessional, it’s smart business.
Here are some of my favourites…
Cliffy, Killer, Monty, Hooch, Head, Hudsy, Bevy, Chancey, Caps, Shanaynay, Yatel, Jalapeño, Sunshine, Jo-jo, Bella, Thorney, Blue Sky, Shwa, Bo-ben, Ginger, Brown, Applesauce, Lepinsky, Rod/Rock Star, Shmegs, Wilfer, b, Free Spirit, Sheds, Papa Smurf…and I could go on.
What are some of the nicknames in your teams?