Interpersonal relationships are a key aspect of any successful business. For any agency, client relationships are vital, and coworker relationships can be equally impactful for long-term success. These mutual coworker relationships turn into genuine friendships that positively influence the workplace environment. This unique type of friendship creates a special bond because of the shared experiences and the level of relatability individuals have. From sharing office space and eating lunch together to taking on volunteer opportunities, workplace friendships are truly a level of interpersonal connection that everyone should look for.
According to Harvard Business Review, Americans are now more likely to make friends at work than anywhere else. The average person spends about 81,396 hours at work over their career – that’s over nine years! While that might sound like a lot, forming connections with colleagues can really make your time at work more enjoyable and fulfilling. While these friendships may seem like they only benefit the employees, there are a multitude of benefits that companies can see from their employees engaging in workplace friendships. Some of the benefits seen are:
1. Increased productivity – Close workplace friendships can boost productivity since friends are more committed, communicate effectively and motivate each other.
2. Increased job satisfaction – A global study by the International Social Survey Programme reveals that interpersonal workplace relationships significantly enhance the job satisfaction of the average employee.
3. Lower stress levels/decreased burnout – According to Gallup, as reported by Forbes, employees with a close friend at work are seven times more likely to be engaged in their job, leading to lower stress and decreased burnout.
4. Increased job retention – In a recent Forbes article, BetterUp’s survey showed that respondents reported 91% greater personal growth and 101% greater professional growth in relation to their workplace friendships. This growth can be attributed to friends offering support, feedback and validation.
As two girls who had zero expectations for our internships and the corporate environment, we have now grown in our careers while nurturing our friendship. Our friendships in the workplace have made us feel more fulfilled and motivated to come to work, because we get to do it alongside people we view as friends! We are grateful to work for a company that helps promote and facilitate workplace friendships and provides a great culture for all employees.