Belonging
What is it?
Belonging is important in business culture because it creates a sense of community and connection among employees. When employees feel a sense of belonging, they are more likely to be engaged, committed, and motivated to contribute to the success of the organization.
A strong sense of belonging also creates a more inclusive and diverse workplace culture. When employees feel included and valued for their unique perspectives and experiences, they are more likely to bring their whole selves to work, leading to increased innovation, creativity, and problem-solving.
Belonging is also important for business performance. When employees feel connected to the organization and to their colleagues, they are more likely to stay with the company long-term, reducing turnover costs and maintaining institutional knowledge. They are also more likely to collaborate effectively and work towards common goals, leading to higher levels of productivity, performance, and profitability.
Additionally, belonging can help to reduce stress and promote mental health in the workplace. When we feel isolated or disconnected, it can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and burnout. However, when we feel a sense of belonging, we have a support system in place, which can help us to navigate challenges and cope with stress more effectively.
Overall, a sense of belonging is essential for human well-being at work. It can help us to feel more engaged, motivated, and supported, leading to a more positive and fulfilling work experience.
Belonging involves:
Acceptance: Feeling genuinely welcomed without the need to conform or mask one’s identity.
Connection: Building meaningful, authentic relationships.
Contribution: Knowing one’s input is valued and impactful.
Inclusion: Ensuring everyone has equitable opportunities to participate and succeed.
In leadership, cultivating belonging means intentionally shaping environments where all individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered.
How might you develop it?
When I coach leaders who are strongly motivated to elevate performance and create a great working environment, they pay attention to developing a positive culture that they feel is going to create a bigger sense of belonging. As a leader you might start by:
Fostering inclusivity: Create an environment where everyone feels included, regardless of their background or differences. Encourage open communication and active listening, and foster a culture of respect and empathy
Leading by example: Model the behaviors you want to see in others. Be open and approachable, show empathy and respect, and hold yourself and others accountable for creating an inclusive workplace
Soliciting feedback: Regularly ask employees for feedback on how to improve the organization's culture of belonging. Use this feedback to make necessary changes and improvements
Key References and Research on Belonging
Books:
"Belonging at Work" by Rhodes Perry: Explores strategies for building workplaces where everyone feels valued.
"The Culture Code" by Daniel Coyle: Highlights the role of belonging in fostering high-performing teams.
"We Can't Talk About That at Work!" by Mary-Frances Winters: Provides guidance on creating inclusive spaces for difficult conversations.
"Braving the Wilderness" by Brené Brown: Examines the interplay of vulnerability, authenticity, and belonging in personal and professional contexts.
Key Research:
Google’s Project Aristotle: Identified psychological safety—a core component of belonging—as critical for team effectiveness.
Stanford Graduate School of Business Studies: Show how belonging boosts organizational commitment and innovation.
The Inclusion Imperative by Stephen Frost: Discusses the business case for fostering inclusion and belonging in organizations.
Publications:
Harvard Business Review: Articles like "Diversity Doesn’t Stick Without Inclusion" focus on belonging as a driver of inclusion and equity.
McKinsey & Company: Reports such as "Diversity Wins: How Inclusion Matters" link belonging to improved financial and cultural performance.
Forbes Leadership: Explores how belonging contributes to employee engagement and retention.
Podcasts:
"Inclusion Works" by Hive Learning: Features insights from leaders building cultures of belonging.
"The Modern Manager" by Mamie Kanfer Stewart: Focuses on inclusive leadership practices that enhance belonging.
"Leading with Empathy and Allyship" by Melinda Briana Epler: Provides actionable advice for leaders committed to fostering inclusion and belonging.