When employees feel a sense of belonging in the workplace, they’re free to be their authentic, true selves, which makes it easier to show up, engage with others, create solutions and perform well. People who don’t feel workplace belonging experience anxiety, (dis)stress and mistrust that ultimately hampers their performance and creativity. That’s why entrepreneurs and leaders should design organizational policies and practices to encourage it.
Well-known, but nonetheless important, examples include knowing a team member’s name, welcoming them into the company through appropriate onboarding procedures and traditions, and regularly checking in to see how things are going through staff meetings, one-on-one huddles and feedback-based performance evaluations.
