The Difference Between Being Invited and Belonging

As I reflect on inclusion, I have been thinking not just about inviting someone in but about
ensuring they truly feel like they belong once they are there. Inclusion is more than an invitation; it’s a sense of belonging.

It’s one thing to invite someone to a social gathering where they do not know anyone and give
them a quick hello before leaving them to fend for themselves. For some, that might work, but
many people fear this exact situation and avoid going altogether.

Now imagine the difference between letting someone fend for themselves after being invited to
an event versus actively making it easier for them to connect and feel supported. That could
mean suggesting a good time to arrive, warmly welcoming them, introducing them to a few
people, and pointing out common interests to spark conversation. It might even mean
something as simple as name tags with hobbies listed or sharing details in advance so guests
can get a sense of who will be there and who they might want to meet. Maybe there is an
optional moment for brief introductions so people do not feel like they are stepping into a room full of strangers.

These are all tactical, event-oriented ideas, but the goal is deeper. Small shifts in how we
introduce, interact, and engage in our personal and professional circles can help turn outsiders
not just into participants but into insiders; people who truly feel like they belong.

Many of us have had experiences where we were invited somewhere, whether it was a party, a
gathering, or a networking event, only to find ourselves standing on the outskirts, barely talking to anyone or struggling to find common ground. Or maybe we spent the whole time clinging to the one person we knew while they tried to balance conversations with everyone else. These moments are common, but they are rarely enjoyable.

What if we were more intentional about how we bring people in?
How do we not just open the door, but also ensure people feel at home once they step inside?
How do we make people feel like they were not just invited but truly included?

~Ryan Peterson