‘Talent hushing’ blamed as four-in-10 workers say they contribute less than they could

More than 40 per cent of UK adults say they contribute less at work than they are capable of, amid warnings that “talent hushing” could be holding back productivity

A workplace phenomenon dubbed “talent hushing” could be holding back British productivity, with more than four-in-10 adults saying they contribute less at work than they are capable of.

The term describes employees holding back ideas, questions, concerns or ambition because they do not feel comfortable speaking up or believe they will not be heard.

According to a survey by business psychology consultancy Pearn Kandola, 43 per cent of UK adults said their experiences at work had led them to contribute less than they could.

The problem can leave businesses missing out on ideas, expertise and warnings from staff who choose to stay quiet rather than challenge decisions, flag risks or suggest improvements, it is feared.

Professor Binna Kandola OBE, the co-founder of Pearn Kandola, said: “This year’s theme, Talent Hushing, highlights both the organisational risks and missed opportunities when those with the best ideas feel they will not be heard – or that it’s simply safer to stay quiet.

“In our research, conducted in July, we found that 43 per cent of UK adults said they contribute less than they are capable of, due to their experiences at work. It’s a shocking figure that demonstrates how Talent Hushing could well be a national productivity issue.”

The findings are being highlighted during Psychological Safety Week, which runs from September 21 to 25.

READ MORE: AI boom leaves many workers without the data skills employers now need. AI may be spreading rapidly through offices, but many employees still lack the data skills needed to question outputs, interpret results and use the technology properly, according to new industry research.

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