BelongingOLD | The Belonging Guy

Regardless of our individual identities, humans have a fundamental desire to belong.

In May 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General called out what many of us already feel: loneliness has become a public health epidemic. Disconnection is on the rise, especially among young people — and it’s taking a toll on every part of our lives.

Belonging is the solution we can’t afford to overlook. When people feel connected, valued, and part of something bigger, everything changes — for them, and for the organizations they serve. According to Harvard Business Review, high belonging is linked to a 56% boost in job performance, a 50% drop in turnover risk, and a 75% reduction in sick days. How’s that for a business case?

There are four elements that add up to true Belonging.

1. Being seen

What does it mean to be seen?

You are recognized, rewarded, and respected.

What is a working example of being seen?

When employees feel seen and supported, they thrive. I lead sessions that build momentum, strengthen teams, and drive real results.

What does it mean to be connected?

You have positive, authentic social connections.

What is an working example of being connected?

You laugh with teammates during a midweek check-in, swap weekend stories, and realize you genuinely look forward to showing up.

2. Feeling Connected

3. Feeling Supported

What does it mean to feel supported?

You get what you need to get work done

What is an example of feeling supported?

You let your team know something’s going on at home, and they don’t just say the right things — they make it easier for you to step away when you need to.

What does it mean to feel proud?

You feel aligned with purpose, vision, and values.

What is an example of feeling proud?

You see real alignment between what your company says and what it does — and that makes you feel good about wearing the logo, online or off.

4. Feeling Proud

Real People. Real Results.

Jarrod consistently displayed a unique ability to connect with and understand the perspectives of employees from all parts of the organization. He is particularly skilled at developing comprehensive and actionable strategic plans that incorporate these perspectives in a way that is understood and accepted at all levels of the organization. His passion and energy for the work combined with a deep knowledge of the subject matter is a powerful and effective combination.

Jarrod is a real empath and I found that he was always able to create a space where everyone felt welcome – heard, respected and empowered. He is a charismatic and engaging speaker and even in a room full of people or at a meeting, manages to strike a chord and make everyone feel as if he is speaking directly to them. I’m a big fan…you have to meet him, and you will see for yourself!

As an expert in helping people recognize the issues, (both spoken and unspoken), engaging people in DEI and belonging work in a way that energizes, and teaching people to lead by earning trust, he'll help your team unlock its potential. If you're reading this, you're already on the right path. Jarrod is the only person for the assignment.

Belonging is the innate human desire to be part of something larger than ourselves. It is our need to connect with others and feel that we are a vital part of a greater whole.

– Desmond Tutu, Leader & Theologian, Nobel Peace Prize Awardee