// Glossary · HR and Talent
Psychological Safety
In short
Psychological safety is a team climate in which people can speak up, ask questions, admit mistakes or disagree without fear of punishment.
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Popularised by Amy Edmondson's research at Harvard, it is a shared trait of high-performing teams. Without it, problems surface late, innovation stalls and employees fall silent. Internal communication nurtures it through examples and leadership behaviour showing that asking, giving feedback and learning from mistakes is normal.
Why it matters
Beyond engagement and retention, psychological safety is the only way to hear employees' real concerns during crisis and change.
Communication practices
- Leaders sharing their own mistakes and lessons
- Anonymous question and feedback channels
- "We heard you" communication showing feedback turned into action
- A question culture in town halls and team meetings
// HR and Talent