Belonging in the Workplace

2 minute read

Social belonging is a fundamental human need. Belonging is also a critical component of company culture. At work, belonging is the experience of employees being wholly accepted and included by those around them.

According to the Center of Talent Innovation, when people feel like they belong at work, they are more motivated, productive, and engaged, thus making them 3.5 times more likely to contribute to their fullest potential.

As employers compete for top talent, they can turn their attention to workplace culture and belonging to keep employees engaged and feeling accepted. Here are some common ways to foster a sense of belonging in the workplace:

• Ask for input. Managers should have an ongoing dialogue with employees about what they can do to promote belonging and make employees feel accepted.
• Check in with employees. Employees have a greater sense of belonging when their managers and co-workers check in on them personally and professionally.
• Give employees a voice. Encourage employees to speak up and share their thoughts.
• Create a psychologically safe space. Being psychologically safe means employees feel secure in taking risks and being vulnerable in front of others.

Organizations should always aim to create spaces where everyone feels welcome. Successful teams are built on trust and respect, and a sense of belonging strongly supports this concept. Thoughtful belonging efforts can bolster the overall employee experience by allowing staff to bring their authentic selves to work.

People want to feel a sense of belonging and value in their communities, including their workplace. Isolation at work can lead to employee disengagement, negative perceptions of employers, or job dissatisfaction. Leaders are responsible for building acceptance and trust, which will help create safe spaces for employees.

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