Workplace Belonging Linked to Employee Retention
A new study reveals that employees feeling a sense of belonging are significantly less likely to consider quitting.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Remote Work
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The Society for Human Resource Management reported that 61 percent of employees dissatisfied with their workplace belonging considered quitting in the past year. In contrast, only 18 percent of those satisfied with their sense of belonging weighed similar plans.
Why it matters
The study suggests that fostering a sense of inclusion is a critical lever for businesses to stabilize their workforce and reduce turnover rates. While pay remains the primary driver of employment decisions, internal culture plays a pivotal role in retaining staff.
The study surveyed 15,896 workers across 26 countries, with the latest quarterly findings drawing from 5,107 responses. This data demonstrates a 43-percentage-point difference in turnover intent between satisfied and dissatisfied groups.
The players
Society for Human Resource Management
This is a professional human resources membership association that provides research, certification, and training to HR professionals globally.
The details
The Society for Human Resource Management utilized its Global Employee Monitor to analyze links between workplace environment and staff retention intentions. Researchers found that despite pay being the strongest factor in job decisions, the disparity in retention interest remains stark across global workforces.
Timeline
The survey was conducted during the first three quarters of 2026.
Market Landscape
This study fits into the broader shift toward prioritizing intangible culture metrics to combat global turnover volatility. By utilizing the Society for Human Resource Management Global Employee Monitor, companies are increasingly bench-marking soft cultural assets against their financial costs.
Employees may find that their own sense of belonging correlates with their stability and career satisfaction at their current firm. Management teams can expect to face increased pressure to address culture as a pragmatic solution to maintain team size and avoid the costs of high turnover.
The takeaway
Building a supportive environment is not just an HR goal but a core retention strategy that significantly influences staff stability. Workers should prioritize identifying workplaces that actively cultivate these inclusive cultures to ensure greater long-term job satisfaction.
Further reading
For more on workplace trends, visit the Remote Work section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Inc..
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Do you prioritize a sense of belonging over salary when deciding to stay at your job?
