Creating a Culture of Belonging

Deborah Jeffries, HR Answers

This is a hybrid event and will be held in-person and via Zoom.

The on-site location is Tall Firs Cafe & Events (1488 18th St., Springfield, OR, 97477). Breakfast will be provided for in-person attendees. Free parking on-site.

Our Topic

In a culture of belonging, the environment fosters three key elements: comfort, connection, and contribution. This involves creating a space where everyone feels a sense of belonging and can thrive without compromising their identity or values. It's the feeling that you're a valued member of a community, giving you a sense of purpose.

Belonging means feeling connected, supported, and respected—basic human needs that are essential for cultivating inclusive, equitable, and diverse workplace cultures. When employees experience belonging, it can lead to increased performance, innovation, satisfaction, and resilience in the face of challenges.

A strong sense of belonging is closely linked to commitment and motivation, which translates into higher employee retention, pride, and engagement. Every leader should know how to cultivate, reinforce, and sustain this feeling for everyone. When people feel they belong, they perform better, are more willing to challenge themselves, and demonstrate greater resilience.

This program has been submitted to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) for review.

Deborah Jeffries serves as Vice President for HR Answers, Inc.

She has 40 years’ experience in the human resources field (over 30 in consulting). As a consultant and trainer, Deborah works with organizations on essential business skills like employment processes, performance management, coaching, recognition, harassment, supervision, leadership, improved communication and more.

She continues to have a busy in-person and online training schedule. She also gets to work with SHRM Chapters for monthly meetings or conferences, etc. If did not know Deborah has been a SHRM member since 1990 and has served in a variety of positions at the local, state and regional Boards levels over the decades. She has even taught the SHRM Certification materials for Chapters and Linfield.

Deborah’s past includes recruiting, training, education, sales and marketing, and HR in a variety of environments. She holds a BS in Psychology and a teaching certificate from Willamette University. Deborah has also served as an adjunct faculty for Portland State University, Marylhurst College, Willamette University, and most recently Linfield College. Deborah has her certifications through SHRM and HRCI.