An often overlooked, yet critical factor in career success is the sense of belonging at work. When employees feel they belong, it not only contributes to their well-being but also drives higher productivity, collaboration, and retention. So why is feeling a sense of belonging so important, and what does the research say about its impact on the workplace?
What does it mean to belong?
At its essence, belonging is the profound human need to feel accepted, valued, and connected to others. It is not limited to the workplace; belonging is a fundamental aspect of the human experience that influences our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. When we feel that we belong, whether in a community, family, or organisation, we experience a sense of security, identity, and support.
Why belonging matters in the workplace
In the workplace, this emotional connection goes beyond just physical presence; it’s about feeling recognised and respected. When individuals feel they belong, they’re more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their work.
As Dr. Frances X. Frei, a leadership expert at Harvard Business School, puts it, "Belonging is the feeling that you are valued, that you have a role, and that you are accepted for who you are. It is essential to unlock the full potential of individuals and teams."
Ultimately, creating an environment where employees feel that they truly belong is not just beneficial, it is critical for fostering engagement, collaboration, and overall success. Employees who feel they belong at work are more likely to be motivated and loyal to their employer.
This sense of connection is so powerful that it has a direct impact on performance. Studies indicate that workplaces fostering a sense of belonging create an environment that enables employees to thrive. Deloitte’s 2020 Global Human Capital Trends report found that employees who feel a strong sense of belonging are three times more likely to contribute to innovation and four times more likely to be motivated to perform at their best.
The link between belonging and mental well-being
A strong sense of belonging can significantly impact mental health and well-being at work. Employees who feel isolated or disconnected are at risk for stress, anxiety, and even depression. According to Dr. Vivek Murthy, former U.S. Surgeon General and author of Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World, “Loneliness is associated with a greater risk of mental health challenges, and when it happens in the workplace, it can lead to disengagement and burnout."
On the other hand, organisations that actively nurture an inclusive and belonging-driven culture create environments where employees feel more secure in expressing themselves. Gallup’s 2020 State of the American Workplace report found that employees who feel connected to their team and company culture report higher levels of happiness, job satisfaction, and overall well-being.
The business impact of belonging
Belonging may often be seen as a “soft” benefit, but its impact on business outcomes is both tangible and profound. A strong sense of belonging not only leads to a more engaged and satisfied workforce but also significantly influences retention, recruitment, and overall performance. According to McKinsey & Company’s 2020 report, organisations that foster a higher sense of inclusion and belonging report 22% higher profitability and 25% higher productivity. These statistics highlight how creating an inclusive environment directly contributes to business success.
Prioritising belonging is crucial in attracting top talent. Today’s professionals are looking for more than just competitive compensation; they want to work for organisations that value them and offer an environment where they can thrive. A 2021 LinkedIn survey revealed that 82% of professionals would consider a company’s culture before applying for a job, with belonging being a key factor in their decision-making process.
A 2023 study by Reward Gateway found that more than half of Australian employees consider a sense of belonging more important than a 10% pay rise, emphasising its significant role in employee satisfaction and engagement. Reward Gateway states, "Feeling like you belong at work isn’t just nice - it’s necessary for employee engagement and well-being."
Similarly, Qualtrics highlights workplace belonging as the top driver of employee engagement in Australia. Their findings suggest that employees who feel valued and connected within their organisations are not only more engaged but also more motivated to perform at their best. As Qualtrics puts it, "Organisations that foster belonging create more engaged teams, which in turn leads to better performance."
The 7 key drivers of belonging in the workplace
According to Great Place to Work, there are seven essential drivers that contribute to fostering a strong sense of belonging at work:
Leadership: Leaders play a crucial role in creating an inclusive environment where employees feel seen, valued, and appreciated. When leaders openly support diversity and belonging, it sets a tone for the entire organisation.
Fairness: Belonging thrives in a workplace where employees believe they are treated fairly and equitably. Transparent and consistent policies are key to ensuring that all employees feel valued regardless of their background or position.
Respect and Inclusion: Employees must feel respected for their unique qualities and differences. An inclusive culture values diversity and actively works to break down barriers to inclusion, whether based on gender, race, or other aspects of identity.
Opportunities to Contribute: Employees feel they belong when they have meaningful opportunities to contribute. When individuals’ work is recognised and they feel their input is valued, they develop a stronger connection to the organisation and its mission.
Personal Connection: Building strong, supportive relationships with colleagues is essential to fostering belonging. Encouraging collaboration, team-building, and mentorship can help employees develop a sense of community at work.
Shared Values: Employees are more likely to feel a sense of belonging when they align with the values of the organisation. When these values are clearly communicated and reflected in the company’s actions, employees feel more connected to the larger purpose of the organisation.
Growth and Development: A sense of belonging is nurtured when employees feel they can grow professionally within the company. Opportunities for learning, development, and career advancement are critical to fostering engagement and loyalty.
Practical steps to foster belonging
Organisations can take several steps to promote belonging in the workplace:
Encourage open communication: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns without fear of judgment or exclusion.
Promote diversity and inclusion: Ensure that your policies, hiring practices, and team-building efforts actively embrace diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Provide mentorship and support networks: Establish mentorship programs or employee resource groups to help individuals navigate their career journeys and build relationships within the company.
Celebrate individual contributions: Regularly recognise and celebrate employee achievements, reinforcing their value to the team and organisation.
Lead with empathy: Leaders should make it a priority to check in on employees' well-being and provide support, ensuring that no one feels overlooked or isolated.
Conclusion
Feeling a sense of belonging at work is no longer just a “nice to have”, it is a necessity for both individual well-being and organisational success. When employees feel they belong, they’re not only more productive but also more loyal, creative, and engaged. By fostering a culture of belonging, organisations can reduce turnover, increase collaboration, and build stronger teams that drive success.
If you're looking to strengthen your workplace culture, consider how you can create an environment that fosters inclusivity, engagement, and connection because at the end of the day, when employees feel they belong, everyone wins.
Written by Melanie Brown, Marketing Executive, Ambition Group Australia.
