Work relationships, how important are they? ‘At first glance, workplace friendships can seem trivial – a ‘nice to have’ that’s distinct from traditional organizational objectives like productivity, efficiency, and profitability.’ (HBR) However, this isn’t quite true. ‘For starters, employees with close connections at work are more productive, creative, and collaborative.’ (HBR) So, what can we do to improve? ‘Use commonalities to spark friendships…Highlight shared goals…Turn tension into connection.’ (HBR) So what does that mean for you? Try to find interests or work tasks that you have “in common” with others, discuss your common goals and how you could collaborate, and don’t let different points of view divide you.
