Celebrating workplace friendships.

One of the questions in Gallup's Q12 (a twelve-item survey designed to measure employee engagement by assessing elements that drive performance outcomes) is "Do you have a best friend at work?"

It's an increasingly important part of a healthy and engaged workplace, with those who report having a best friend at work being more efficient, safer, more reliable, more innovative and fun. Also, they are twice as likely as someone who doesn't have a best friend at work to recommend the company as a great place to work (21% compared to 44%).

Encouraging connection in the workplace by creating networks, social gatherings, building design, and learning opportunities benefits the organisation. They are not wasting productive time; they are creating it.

But let's forget the statistics and think about all the wonderful people we have met and are still to meet over our careers.

They flow through our lives like a river. Some eddy around with you, some branch off down another stream, and some go all the way to the sea with you. Shallow, deep, calm, or torrid bring something to our working lives.

However, navigating these relationships requires balancing personal connection and professional boundaries. There is a step too far when friendships turn into cliques, when workplace antics become offensive or disruptive, or when groupthink stifles diversity of ideas.

Workplace friendships, with all their quirks and charms, add a rich dimension to our professional lives. They enhance job satisfaction, provide crucial support, and create a vibrant work environment. Embracing workplace friendships can lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable career, reminding us that work is not just about tasks and deadlines but also about the people we share our journey with.

What have you done to acknowledge and appreciate these boons for your personal and professional lives? Is it time to celebrate with your work besties just because you can? Or can you organise something that can help others to form new connections? Or get back in touch with an old gang - even if it's been a while?

Don't wait. Show some appreciation for those who make your work life fun.