Abstract

This research discusses the opportunity presented by the post-pandemic return to work to support Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging initiatives by creating a new belonging framework for women working in a hybrid environment. The transition to remote and hybrid work arrangements amid the pandemic highlighted the importance of leaders tackling ongoing challenges in leadership and management, such as digital transformation and remote management, which led to rapid change, anxiety, and uncertainty. The lack of daily contact has significantly impacted workplace relationships and highlighted the importance of belongingness for employees' well-being and retention. Hybrid work arrangements are likely to become a permanent fixture. Nevertheless, employees’ experiences have varied significantly, especially regarding their sense of belonging and work-life balance, especially for women and marginalized groups. Thus, organizations should consider adopting modified methods to foster belonging and purpose in hybrid work environments, including regular communication, clear expectations, flexibility, training and development, and recognition and celebration of achievements. By doing so, organizations may foster a feeling of belonging and support for employees, increasing employee involvement, efficiency, and overall achievement. The study also examined critical factors that fostered a culture of belonging among women in a hybrid work environment. Examining existing literature, 60 crucial items were identified and incorporated into a survey. Using a modified Delphi method, a panel of 20 experts used a Likert scale ranking the importance level for each item’s input toward belongingness. Following three rounds of discussions, the expert panel agreed on 85% (51 out of 60) of the items with a MeSI score of 3.00%, an IQRSI score of 8.00%, and a MoSI score of 10.00%. This led to the study's stability. Subsequently, intercoder reliability was employed to pinpoint themes and significant factors to develop Harley’s C.O.R.E Belonging Framework.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Virtual work--Women; Telecommuting--Women; Work environment--Women; Belonging (Social psychology)--Women

Date of Award

2024

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Education

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Farzin Madjidi

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