Finding your tribe in the workplace is like discovering your new favorite coffee spot – it just feels right. It’s about connecting with people who welcome your addition, share your challenges and wins, and align with your energy and drive. These connections aren’t about forced networking but building a genuine community that boosts you. Finding your tribe isn’t instant – it’s a process. So, take your time. Get involved in projects or events that pique your interest. Your work community is out there; when you find them, it’s like unlocking a new level of workplace satisfaction. Here are four quick tips to move you forward in your quest to find and nurture your tribe: 

Pay Attention to the “Micro Engagements” 

In the bustling corridors of our professional lives, the subtle, seemingly minor interactions—those “micro engagements”—often pave the way for meaningful connections. These are the quick exchanges, the shared smiles over a morning coffee, and the brief yet heartfelt congratulations on a job well done. In these moments, when we take the time to genuinely engage with those around us, even briefly, we lay the groundwork for deeper relationships. Paying attention to these micro-engagements means recognizing the value in every interaction, no matter how small, and understanding that each one holds the potential to contribute to a vibrant workplace culture.

When I joined the Crucial team in 2019, one of my team members, a brilliant technical artist, always had bowls of chocolate and treats at his cube. I gravitated towards his cube at least a few times a week, especially after long meetings or a tiring day. It wasn’t just the sweets that drew me in; it was the opportunity for a small chat, a moment to unwind and connect on a human level. These brief interactions taught me more about this team member and others around his cube. The seemingly inconsequential conversations built a foundation of trust and camaraderie that still persists. We stay connected, a testament to the lasting impact of genuine, small-scale connections in the workplace.

This experience emphasizes a valuable lesson: Sometimes, small chats lead to more prominent connections. Despite how busy our modern world is, don’t shy away from a casual Zoom conversation or a quick chat in the break room. You never know where it might lead.

Expanding Your Search Beyond Immediate Colleagues

In large organizations, your tribe might not always be in your immediate team or department. Explore cross-functional teams, special interest groups, or company-wide initiatives. These platforms offer unique opportunities to meet like-minded individuals who can provide fresh perspectives and support while not directly in your work area. Venturing outside your immediate circle can uncover hidden gems—people who share your passion, work ethic, and perhaps even your sense of humor.

When I worked at Microsoft on Team Xbox, there was a time I found myself volunteering for a company-wide innovation project that aimed to enhance our customer service experience. The project team was a diverse mix of individuals from marketing, IT, customer service, and video game design and software development. Initially, I wondered how our varied backgrounds would mesh. However, as we worked on the project, I discovered a kindred spirit in a game designer with a keen interest in leveraging community interactions to design engaging in-game customer experiences—something I was passionate about but hadn’t had the opportunity to explore deeply in my role.

Our collaboration on the project was not just about achieving our objectives but also about learning from each other. This designer introduced me to new perspectives on using design strategy in marketing, which enriched my understanding and appreciation of his craft. Even after the project concluded, we continued to share insights and ideas, proving that expanding your search for your tribe can lead to unexpected and enriching professional relationships.

This experience reaffirmed the value of looking beyond the usual boundaries of departments and roles. By doing so, you can find individuals who resonate with your professional aspirations and opportunities for mutual growth and learning that you might not have encountered otherwise.

The Role of Mentorship

Mentorship is invaluable in career development, serving as a beacon of guidance and support and as a bridge to unparalleled opportunities and connections. The essence of mentorship transcends the conventional, often facilitating encounters that can profoundly shape one’s professional path and perspective. Effective mentorship fosters an environment where mentees can explore their interests deeply, challenge their assumptions, and expand their professional networks in ways they never imagined possible.

An unforgettable chapter in my mentorship journey unfolded early in my career at The Gramophone Company of India (EMI), where I worked under the head of the Pop Music A&R department. She was my guide and an informal mentor who recognized and nurtured my potential. In what would become a pivotal moment in my career, she introduced me to Javed Akhtar—one of India’s most esteemed lyricists and poets—during one of the company’s most significant product launches.

Tasked with managing the photo shoot for the album art, I spent the day with Javed Saab (As he is known to his friends in India. Saab means mister in Hindi). Despite my initial nervousness in the presence of such a celebrated figure, I engaged in numerous conversations with him throughout the day.

These discussions were not just casual chats; they were profound learning opportunities. Javed Saab shared insights into his journey, his approach to writing, and, most importantly, his perspective on positioning and marketing creative works. His generosity in sharing his wisdom offered me an invaluable glimpse into the art of marketing artists and their creative endeavors. For readers who do not follow Indian music, this album, Breathless, became one of the biggest releases in Indian pop music history. 

This experience, facilitated by my mentor, was more than just a lesson in marketing; it was a testament to the power of mentorship in opening doors to new vistas of knowledge and connection. The interactions with Javed Saab enriched my understanding of the music industry and underscored the importance of mentorship in navigating the complex landscape of professional growth and development.

Creating a Culture of Belonging

As you progress in your career, the importance of fostering a welcoming environment for others becomes increasingly evident. You play a crucial role in nurturing a culture of belonging by sharing your knowledge, offering support, and being open to new connections. This culture attracts and retains the essence of future tribes, built upon shared values, interests, and collective goals. Remember, the foundation of lasting professional relationships often lies in finding common ground, whether in overcoming challenges, pursuing passions, or contributing to a cause greater than oneself.

Leading the corporate marketing team at Micron, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of shared passion and purpose. Our team harbored a deep commitment to giving back to the community, a value that became even more pronounced during the challenging times of the pandemic. During this period, I took up the ukulele, an endeavor that brought me great joy amidst the uncertainty. In a blend of vulnerability and leadership, I decided to leverage my newfound hobby to catalyze our volunteering efforts.

I made a light-hearted pledge to my team: if we reached our goal of volunteering hours, I would perform a song for them, ukulele in hand. This proposition, blending the prospect of contributing to our community with the amusing incentive of my amateur performance, ignited an unprecedented wave of participation. The result was not just about hitting our target; it was a testament to our collective spirit and camaraderie. Micron’s Chief Business Officer awarded us for achieving the highest participation rate across his entire function. This proud moment underscored how shared goals and a little fun could foster a strong sense of community.

This experience taught me that creating a culture of belonging goes beyond the professional. It’s about connecting on a human level, embracing our quirks, and celebrating our collective achievements. When leaders are willing to show their authentic selves, even in the most vulnerable moments, it sends a powerful message: it’s okay to be you with all your unique talents and quirks. In your quest to build and nurture your tribe, never underestimate the value of authenticity. Being genuine to yourself draws others to you and encourages them to express their true selves. This mutual authenticity fosters a deeper connection and understanding, laying the groundwork for a culture where everyone feels valued and understood.

Finding My Tribe: A Reflection

As I look back over the rollercoaster ride that has been my career, it strikes me that the most memorable moments weren’t the high-stakes presentations or the nail-biting project deadlines (although, let’s be honest, there was a particular thrill to those, too). No, the memories that truly stand out are the times when I found myself amidst my tribe—those groups of individuals who, much like a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, infused warmth and richness into my professional life, making even the most demanding days seem pleasantly aromatic and full of flavor.

So, as you stand at the precipice of your journey, ukulele in hand (or whatever your equivalent might be), I invite you to pause and reflect. Consider the tribes you’ve been a part of, the connections you’ve cherished, and the community you’ve contributed to building. Ask yourself, “Have I found my tribe, or am I still on the hunt? Am I creating moments of connection that others will look back on and smile? And most importantly, have I practiced my ukulele enough not to cause a mass exodus at the next team meeting?!!”

Keep your eyes, ears, and heart open as you venture forward. Your tribe is out there, possibly hiding behind a Zoom screen or just around the next coffee machine in the office, waiting to be discovered. And when you meet them, cherish that connection. Just like learning your new favorite coffee shop, once you’ve found it, you’ll marvel at how you ever managed without it. Here’s to the journey, the laughs, the shared victories, and yes, even the occasional off-key ukulele concert. May it be as uniquely fulfilling for you as it has been for me. Your tribe is out there—perhaps closer than you think. Happy hunting!

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