Research Insights: Capability, Motivation & Opportunity

The three conditions that shape whether people speak up
 
Having a difficult conversation isn’t just about knowing what to say, it depends on whether people feel able, willing, and supported to act.
 
This free infographic draws on my doctoral research at the University of Hertfordshire and uses the COM-B Behavioural Model to explore three key drivers of workplace voice:
Capability – the skills, confidence, and emotional regulation needed to handle high-stakes dialogue.
Motivation – the emotional engine that determines whether people choose to act, even if they have the skills.
Opportunity – the external conditions (time, culture, leadership support) that make space for safe and constructive conversations.
 
The findings show that motivation was often the tipping point: even skilled employees in supportive environments stayed silent if they doubted whether speaking up would make a difference.
 
This infographic highlights the barriers at each level, and offers evidence-based strategies for leaders and organisations to strengthen capability, boost motivation, and create opportunities for genuine dialogue.
 
Download this free resource to learn how to reduce silence, build confidence, and create cultures where people feel safe to speak.