Having friends at work can make work more enjoyable and the day go by more quickly, but there are numerous benefits to having workplace friendships that you may not have even considered. In this issue of the Pulse, we discuss the importance of workplace friendships and how employers can help foster them.

The benefits

According to a study conducted by KPMG, the majority of professionals feel work friendships help them “feel more engaged (83%), satisfied on the job (81%) and connected to their workplaces (80%)”. They also have a positive impact on mental health, with many citing that work friends “serve as a sounding board and source of empathy during challenging times (48%), enable greater resiliency (42%) and foster a stronger sense of personal connection and belonging (41%)”.

So, what can employers do to foster these workplace friendships?

Organize events where employees can freely socialize with each other

Many employers throw annual holiday parties, but there are a number of events that can be held throughout the year. This includes birthday parties, wedding and baby showers, and summer barbeques. If possible, consider holding the event during work hours. This will ensure all members of the team will be able to participate, without cutting into their personal time or having to find alternative care for their children and/or pets.

Run a workplace campaign for a local non-profit organization

Organizing a workplace campaign for a local non-profit organization is another great way to foster workplace relationships among your employees, while also giving back to the community. Ways to do this could include holding a donation drive, raising money for a shared cause, or volunteering together.

Encourage employees to bond over their shared interests

In all likelihood, you probably have some employees who share common interests. Encourage those employees to bond over their shared interests. This could look like creating a book club where employees can share recommendations with each other or starting a company baseball team.

Create a welcoming breakroom for your employees

Most workplaces already have a breakroom, but is your breakroom somewhere employees actually want to spend their lunch? Does it have comfortable seating? Does it have the necessary kitchen appliances, such as a refrigerator, microwave and kettle? Does it have any amenities, such as a coffee bar or communal snacks? If your breakroom isn’t a comfortable, welcoming space, chances are your employees will end up taking their break elsewhere, whether that’s at their desk or in their car, separate from other employees.

In conclusion…

Having workplace friendships comes with numerous benefits, both for the employee and the employer. Employers should consider ways they can foster these relationships for the benefit of everyone involved.