Friendships at work are an important — and some would say essential — aspect of our professional lives. Having friends on the job provides a welcome social dimension to the workday. It’s enjoyable to make a coffee run or go out to lunch with colleagues. Workplace friends fill other roles too. They can be sounding boards, supporters, confidantes, mentors and back-up players.
There is another advantage as well. A survey by our company found that 63 percent of employees and 57 percent of executives said interoffice friendships increase productivity.
Despite the positive aspects to maintaining friendships at work, such relationships can occasionally cause problems. Here are some points to keep in mind when befriending your coworkers:
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- Steer clear of certain types. Think twice before confiding in the office gossip or the boss’s most vocal critic. Workplace relationships should enhance your career, not hinder it. Cultivate connections with individuals who are respected, professional and well-liked in the office.
- Socialize strategically. Remember that work comes first, and be mindful of how much time you spend chatting with friends in the workplace. Coffee and lunch breaks are the best time to catch up on non-work topics and personal interests.
- Don’t be a doormat. Friends at work should support one another and help each other out. This doesn’t mean, however, that you have to pitch in to help an office pal at the expense of managing your own workload.
- Don’t become a clique. Take care not to spend lunch hours or breaks with the same friend every day. Colleagues may perceive the two of you as an exclusive pair. And if your pal isn’t getting along with a coworker, you may unwittingly become a party in the conflict.
- Widen your circle. Look beyond your team or department for workplace friends. By volunteering to help with a work-related social event (e.g., planning the companywide holiday party), you’ll meet new people and establish ties in other areas of the business.
