I’ve been thinking a lot about how workplaces have evolved in recent years. The quest for belonging at work has emerged as a fundamental human need, and that matters: Research consistently shows that when employees feel seen and supported, they are more engaged, productive, fulfilled, and less likely to leave their companies. But I also can’t help but acknowledge that while organizations have implemented top-down initiatives, there is still so much work to be done. The truth is, the heart of belonging lies in how we treat each other as teammates and individuals. It’s about the small actions that help us build strong relationships, foster an environment of collaboration, and feel a sense of connection in our day-to-day lives. Without it, we risk creating workplaces that fail to support the holistic well-being of our employees.
I’ve seen from my years in the well-being and human sustainability space that employees crave a sense of belonging. More than just finding a place to clock in and out, individuals are looking for community, connection, and purpose in their workplace. And by creating a culture of empathy and respect, we not only create a more welcoming workplace, but also create meaningful relationships and unlock the full potential of our teams.
Here are a few strategies that have helped me create a sense of connection and belonging at work, and can hopefully help you do the same:
Reach out to a colleague you don’t typically interact with.
Our workplace relationships are key when it comes to finding meaning at our jobs and feeling a sense of belonging. In fact, 70 percent of people say having work friends is the most crucial element of a fulfilling work life. They help give us a sense of community, reduce our stress, and allow us to connect with people that are different from ourselves. Today, take a moment to reach out to a teammate who you don’t know very well. Ask them what they’re interested in, what they’re working on, or what they’re excited about right now. Simply engaging in conversation can help spark connections and foster a sense of community.
Take time for gratitude.
I often look back to a moment I had early in my career, when I was leading a project and ended up working overtime to hit a deadline. After the project was over, a colleague of mine thanked me for all the hard work I put in, and told me that my efforts didn’t go unnoticed. After all of my hard work, that small moment of recognition meant the world to me. Expressing gratitude for the people on our team helps us feel seen and celebrated. Whether it’s a small thank-you note or a public acknowledgment during a team meeting, recognizing the efforts of others can help create an environment where everyone feels that they matter.
Check in regularly.
Whether you’re a CEO, a manager, or a new teammate, there’s so much power in checking in with your colleagues regularly, asking them what they’re struggling with, and how you can help. A simple conversation can make a world of difference in someone’s day and demonstrate that their well-being matters to you, which helps create a welcoming, compassionate workplace. We’re all human, and we all need reminders that we don’t have to be superheroes all the time. Taking a minute to check in with the person sitting at the desk right next to you might make their day — or at the very least, spark a moment of joy and connection.
Engage in employee events and programs.
Fostering a sense of community at work starts with making sure everyone feels welcome. Reach out to your organization and ask if they provide valuable resources and support for employees, or events for employees that foster a sense of community and belonging. There may be LGBTQ+ groups, women’s networks, and groups for employees of different racial or ethnic backgrounds. By reaching out and asking about different initiatives, you can get involved and help create a more welcoming and supportive environment for your teammates. And if they don’t have anything in place yet, you can suggest a team outing to help everyone get to know each other better, a mentorship program, or other programs that help employees connect with one another.