7 Ways to Build a Sense of Belonging in the Workplace

Feeling a sense of belonging at work isn’t just a perk — it’s essential for a thriving workplace. In fact, a 2023 Work in America Survey found that 94% of workers consider it very important to feel they belong in their workplace. After all, when you’re connected to and secure within your community, whether that’s with family, close friends, or colleagues, you experience that vital sense of belonging — a feeling of being at home, where your true self is welcomed and safe.

But here’s the big question: Is your organization ready to commit to creating an environment where every team member feels that they truly belong? It’s a commitment worth making. Achievers Workforce Institute (AWI) research shows that employees who feel a strong sense of belonging are ten times more likely to recommend their organization as a great place to work and are genuinely enthusiastic about their jobs.

So, how do you cultivate this all-important sense of belonging within your company? Read on to discover practical strategies that can help you create a more inclusive and connected workplace.

What is a sense of belonging in the workplace?

A sense of belonging in the workplace is a profound experience of connection, security, and community that encompasses a feeling of being at home in one’s environment, free from hesitation or doubt. This sense of belonging is more than just a positive feeling; it represents the deepest measure of employee engagement and serves as a crucial indicator of an individual’s potential to thrive within an organization.

A genuine sense of belonging is a key driver of both individual and organizational success. According to AWI’s Belonging Blueprint, employees who experience a powerful sense of belonging are significantly more likely to be engaged in their roles. They are also more than twice as likely to demonstrate higher levels of productivity, resilience, and commitment to their company, as well as greater job satisfaction and enthusiasm for their work.