Belonging is a person’s sense of acceptance in a given group or work environment. In the workplace, this does not happen by itself, it must be nurtured constantly. Belonging has a strong relationship with commitment and motivation in the workplace. It has a direct impact on retention and motivation.
Inclusive policies
Diversity does not exist without inclusion. Employees who feel included are more likely to be positively engaged in the organization. A culture of inclusion involves creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, respected and valued. Creating an inclusive workplace policy is essential – ensuring that everyone is treated equally and has a sense of belonging.
A common understanding of what inclusion means and why the topic is important is needed. Everyone in the company, not just the managers, must be engaged in order to have visible positive results.
A sense of safety
In places with a high culture of belonging, the feeling of safety is highly valued. People feel comfortable to speak freely. Belonging means that people of different genders, ages and abilities have a place on the team and can contribute equally. Managers should be fair and there should be no microaggressions in the workplace. Using nicknames, frowning or other facial expressions as a response to misunderstanding can also be considered microaggression behaviors.
Resource groups increase the sense of belonging. They are led by and bring together employees who share an interest in a particular dimension of diversity.
Lack of inclusion
There are cases where a person loves their job and is good at it, but doesn’t feel like they belong. This may last for a while, but eventually they move on and accept positions at other companies.
