We\u2019re genetically wired to belong; it\u2019s how we survive and thrive in life \u2014 and at work. This is especially important for minorities who often don\u2019t feel included at the office. New research shows that fostering a sense of belonging helps reduce stress levels, and consequently improves physical health, emotional well-being, and performance. Here are a few ways you can create a culture where everyone feels they belong:
\nMake introductions. Don\u2019t introduce people just by their title. Add tidbits that are unique to the individual and show that you appreciate them. Use language like: \u201cThis is Sara \u2014 she is part of our research team.\u201d The word \u201cour\u201d really adds the feeling of being on a team.
\nSolicit input. Don\u2019t expect everyone to show up and speak up. Invite people who you want to include, ask their opinion, and follow up with questions so they truly felt heard.
\nShare stories. Stories show that you, as the storyteller, care enough about your audience\u2019s career to show your own vulnerability and share your mistakes and successes. They also help people connect emotionally. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
We\u2019re genetically wired to belong; it\u2019s how we survive and thrive in life \u2014 and at work. This is especially important for minorities who often don\u2019t feel included at the office. New research shows that fostering a sense of belonging […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":true,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-624","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-people-and-culture","clearfix"],"yoast_head":"\n