What ‘Sawubona’ Means and Why It matters to Your Team

Being seen is a fundamental human need. We all can recall a moment when we truly felt "seen" by someone for who we are, and how good and empowering it made us feel. When this happens, it deepens our sense of belonging and makes us more connected to our work and to others. And today, with so much of our attention being scattered and superficial, being truly seen is as surprising as it is refreshing.

Research supports this: A sense of social belonging is one of the strongest predictors of engagement and performance at work. According to Deloitte's Global Human Capital Trends report, 79 percent of organizations say that creating a sense of belonging is important or very important for their success. However, only a small percentage feel equipped to make it happen. This needs to change – now. Because when people feel seen, they feel validated, appreciated and engaged. And that is where leadership truly begins.

"Every time we see someone fully, not just their role but in their humanity, we have the experience of learning and growing together," said Nina Bressler, the global head of Hitachi Energy's Service Academy. "People lean in, share what they know and risk showing what they don't. In that mutual recognition, performance becomes a natural outcome of belonging."

Please select this link to read the complete article from Fast Company.