Leadership Essentials: Belonging
Creating a Culture of Belonging: Why It Matters and How Leaders Can Make It Happen
Do you feel like you truly 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 in your workplace?
If there’s one thing my career has taught me, it’s that feeling a genuine sense of belonging at work is rare. I’ve been in environments where it felt like we were locked in a perpetual competition, and new ideas were met with cold stares instead of open arms. Yet, ironically, it was in some of the toughest environments that I found the strongest sense of camaraderie, as if we banded together simply to make it through each day (I see you, my wine girlfriends!).
Looking back, I see how essential it is to feel that sense of connection. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs places belonging right in the middle of the pyramid—after basic safety but before self-esteem. It’s the foundation on which we build our sense of purpose and identity at work, yet in the rush of deadlines and metrics, we often overlook it.
In places where the culture felt more like a battleground than a community, I still found moments of connection. It wasn’t the formal team-building events that created this—it was the small, shared victories and the quiet camaraderie during long meetings. These little moments became lifelines, reminding me that I was part of a team, even when the larger culture fell short.
So, how can we, especially as leaders, create a space where everyone feels like they belong, even if the broader company culture doesn’t fully support it? Here are a few ways to build belonging on your team:
1. Be Real with Each Other
Sharing our struggles and lessons learned can help dismantle walls and build trust. It’s about showing up as humans first, leaders and employees second. When leaders open up, it creates a safe space for others to do the same.
2. Value Every Voice
Encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas, and make it clear that their input is valued. When people see that their voice matters, it transforms the dynamic of the team and fosters a true sense of belonging.
3. Show You Care
Take the time to get to know your team beyond their work personas. Who are they outside the screen and emails? This level of empathy turns a group of coworkers into a supportive, close-knit team that genuinely cares for one another.
4. Lead Authentically
People can spot authenticity from a mile away. Leading with authenticity gives others permission to be themselves, building a culture of trust and true connection. When you’re willing to show up as your real self, you inspire others to do the same.
The Power of Belonging
Belonging is more than a nice-to-have; it’s essential to feeling fulfilled and successful in the workplace. As leaders, we have the power to create spaces where people feel welcomed, valued, and seen as individuals, not just as job titles or roles. This sense of belonging transforms a workplace from a place we go to a community we’re part of.
My journey across various company cultures has taught me that building a culture of belonging starts with us—how we show up, how we support each other, and how we build our teams. When we put people first, we create spaces where everyone can truly belong.