What’s “Belonging” Got to Do With It?
The importance of a respectful workplace to the success of employees and organizations has long been recognized. Respectful workplaces, where participants are supported in their efforts, valued for their contributions, treated fairly and with civility, and always allowed to maintain their dignity are the most productive and have the highest levels of both performance and employee retention.
That may be a given, but what can an organization do to foster respect in the workplace? The answer to that may lie in the word “belonging.” Belonging is the experience of feeling comfortable and appreciated as part of a community. While a sense of belonging may develop spontaneously, the bad news is that it often doesn’t. The good news is that it can be consciously and deliberately nurtured and developed within an organization.
Here are some ideas for enhancing employees’ sense of belonging and community:
- Communicate expectations for civility, fair treatment, and collaboration to both management and employees.
- Recognize employee accomplishments. Ways to do this include everything from designating an “employee of the month” to featuring someone’s accomplishment in the organization newsletter to giving them a bonus.
- Offer personal development and support through mentorship and training. This not only provides opportunity, it demonstrates faith in people’s ability to reach their potential.
- Offer specific pathways for advancement.
- Schedule regular, ongoing opportunities for social and professional interaction, such as inter- and intra-team get-togethers with coffee and snacks. These less formal meetings can allow coworkers to get to know one another as people, become more familiar with their coworkers’ roles at work, and help to encourage friendliness and collaboration.
- Encourage participation socially and professionally. Ask everyone for suggestions and input in an ongoing manner, and maintain a psychologically safe environment by responding thoughtfully and appreciatively, without judgment or negative consequences.
- Employ and encourage cultural competency, which means having a recognition and respect for cultural differences but putting the emphasis on commonalities.
HR professionals and departments are talking about belonging, and recognizing its significance in creating and maintaining a respectful, successful organization culture. Think about how fostering a sense of belonging can contribute to your organization.
Check out Respect at Work: A Sense of Belonging