From invisible to invaluable: why mattering drives performance
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In today's fast-paced work environment, employees crave more than just a pay check—they seek purpose, connection, and recognition. This deep-seated need is encapsulated in the concept of mattering: the feeling that one is seen, valued, and belongs.
Recent studies underscore the significance of this sentiment. According to research highlighted in the Harvard Business Review, 30% of employees report feeling invisible at work, 65% feel under-appreciated, and nearly 82% experience loneliness. These feelings aren't just personal—they directly impact organisational performance.
When employees feel they matter, the benefits are profound:
→ Enhanced engagement: Employees who feel valued are significantly more likely to be engaged and committed to their work (OC Tanner Institute).
→ Improved wellbeing: A sense of mattering contributes to lower stress and burnout and higher overall job satisfaction (McKinsey).
→ Increased retention: Employees who feel recognised and essential are less likely to seek opportunities elsewhere (Great Place to Work).
Leaders play a pivotal role in cultivating this environment.
Here are 7 actionable steps to foster a culture of mattering:
Express genuine appreciation – Regularly acknowledge and thank team members for their contributions.
Connect work to impact – Show how each person’s work contributes to the bigger picture and benefits others.
Foster strong team relationships – Build connection through team rituals and shared moments.
Provide opportunities for growth – Create room for stretch and learning, reinforcing that you believe in people’s potential.
Ensure psychological safety – Foster an environment where it's safe to speak up, fail, and learn.
Recognise individual identities – See the whole person, not just the job title. Notice what's going on in their lives and acknowledge what's important to them right now.
Empower through autonomy – Offer choice and ownership to deepen trust and motivation.
Implementing these practices doesn't require grand gestures. It's about consistent, intentional actions that affirm each team member's significance.
To support leaders in this journey, we’ve created:
📥 The People Leader’s Practical Guide: Helping Your Team Feel They Matter — filled with practical strategies and real-life examples. Join the Make It Human Club for free and download today—link below!
When people feel they matter, they show up differently.
So does your culture. And so does your business.
This article brilliantly captures what today’s workforce truly needs, purpose, connection, and recognition. The emphasis on “mattering” is both timely and essential. Backed by research and packed with actionable steps, it’s a must-read for any leader committed to building a thriving, human-centered workplace.