What is it about?
This pioneering book, grounded in mixed-methods research, addresses the timely issue of workplace loneliness (WL) in remote and distributed work environments. It comprehensively examines the individual and organizational effects of workplace loneliness, underscores the importance of belonging, and provides organizational strategies, supported by an extensive literature review, to overcome WL.
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Why is it important?
Workplace loneliness, with an annual cost to employers exceeding $154 billion, represents a significant global challenge. This issue extends beyond mere physical isolation, often stemming from factors like ineffective leadership and exclusionary workplace behaviors. In today's era, where remote and distributed work are becoming the norm, tackling workplace loneliness is crucial for both employee well-being and organizational success. Our book, pioneering in its focus on WL and belonging, addresses this crucial issue head-on. It offers insights into the psychological impacts of relational deficiencies in the workplace and underscores the importance of fostering a sense of belonging. This focus is particularly timely and relevant, considering the surge in remote working arrangements. Additionally, our comprehensive literature review serves as a foundation for further research, providing a critical overview of existing studies and identifying areas that require deeper exploration. By providing strategic approaches tailored to modern work environments and enriching the academic conversation, our book stands as a crucial resource for both academia and industry, aiming to fill a significant gap in the current understanding of workplace loneliness. It provides a comprehensive understanding for scholars and practitioners, making a significant contribution to the fields of leadership, HRM, DEI, and industrial-organizational psychology.
Perspectives
As the first to focus on workplace loneliness and belonging, especially in the context of remote and distributed work, my co-authors and I hope that our research and book are a call to action for organizations to prioritize the psychological well-being of their workforce in the evolving landscape of work. We hope that the strategies we share contribute to overcoming workplace loneliness and fostering experiences of belonging. We also hope that it inspires further research and practical solutions to tackle workplace loneliness, making a real difference in the lives of workers working remotely and on distributive teams worldwide.
Ph.D. Candidate, Eastern University Karen Perham-Lippman
Eastern University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Workplace Loneliness, November 2023, Emerald,
DOI: 10.1108/978-1-80382-501-420231002.
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Resources
Remote Resilience: Conquering Loneliness in a Distributed World of Work
This insightful discussion hosted by Upwork on LinkedIn Live introduces the research and book "Overcoming Workplace Loneliness: Cultivating Belonging for a Remote Workforce." The discussion focuses on creating a work environment where remote employees feel genuinely valued and connected. Ideal for remote workers seeking a sense of community and leaders aiming to enhance remote work dynamics, the event is a must-watch for those interested in fostering a culture of belonging in the remote work landscape.
Emerald Insight Books: Overcoming Workplace Loneliness Cultivating Belonging for a Remote Workforce
Overcoming Workplace Loneliness Cultivating Belonging for a Remote Workforce Subject: HR and organizational behaviourEmployment lawDiversity, equality, and inclusion Synopsis: Rooted in real-world research and insights, this book envisions a world of work where all employees feel valued for their authentic selves and are able to experience the encouragement and comradery of office connection from the comfort of their homes.
Contributors
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