This factsheet examines what the psychological contract is, why it's important and the strategic implications it has on the employment relationship
The legal contract of employment offers a limited understanding of the employment relationship. However, the psychological contract describes the relationship between employers and workers and influences how people behave from day to day. Unlike the legal contract of employment, the psychological contract is not tangible. It’s built on the everyday actions and statements made by one party and how they are interpreted by the other.
This factsheet explores the psychological contract in the context of the employment relationship. It covers how managers can support the psychological contract, its impact on broader organisation strategy and the role of HR in managing it.
Affiliate membership offers instant access to CIPD resources without the need for assessments or study, or explore your options to become a professional member of the CIPD to demonstrate your commitment to the world of work.
Already a member? Login here.
The Employment Rights Bill is reshaping employer-union dynamics. Are you ready?
Learn how to implement various employee benefits as part of a wider reward strategy
Trade union membership has been falling globally over recent decades. But could the UK be on the brink of a renaissance putting power back to the people within in industrial relations? And more importantly, are employers truly ready for what’s ahead?
This factsheet looks at the policies and procedures employers can put in place around relationships in the workplace, to mitigate risks to the business and their employees
Learn about the UK law surrounding workplace pensions and how to choose new schemes or review existing pension arrangements
Examines the history, principles and current practice around competence and competency frameworks
Explores the role people professionals play in applying ethical values to organisational practice