Whitepaper: The sense of belonging in M&A: Why culture can't be an afterthought

Mergers and acquisitions often focus heavily on financial and operational integration, yet overlook one of the most critical factors for long-term success: cultural integration. A strong sense of belonging is a fundamental human need that drives engagement, performance, and retention. When disrupted during M&A, it can lead to friction, disengagement, and costly turnover. This whitepaper explores the psychology behind belonging, its role in the workplace, and practical strategies for fostering a unified culture during mergers—drawing on Highberg’s firsthand experience and real-world case studies.