Traditionalists argue there is no room for friends in the work place, however I feel the opposite. I think it is absolute vital to foster friendships with people at work. Making connections with your coworkers provides several benefits for both the workplace and your personal life.
Camaraderie
We share the same mission and purpose. It is nice reaching a goal alone, but it is even nicer to have someone to celebrate with. Also on the non-celebratory (aka bad) days a work friend can be an even bigger asset. When you’re feeling down you might need someone to lift you up or even commiserate with. Life is easier with cheerleaders.
Work-Life Balance
Besides being my famjam, my colleagues are the people I spend the majority of my time with. We all put in long hours, it is so much easier to make plans or grab a drink with someone who’s in the same place as you.
They Keep You On Your Toes!
People who have a best friend at work are seven times more likely to be engaged with that work, according to research by Tom Rath, author of Vital Friends: The People You Can’t Afford to Live Without. His research also shows that close friendships at work boost employee satisfaction by almost 50%.
Friendships can be a rewarding aspect of your work life. There truly is a plethora of reasons why having a work buddy is such a great thing. If you don’t look forward to your workday at least the company of others can help it go by.
