Esther Perel, a distinguished psychotherapist, author, podcast host, and speaker, conveys a singular message through her work: The quality of one's relationships shapes the overall quality of life. This principle applies not only to personal relationships but also to professional ones.
Perel emphasized at the Culture First Global Conference in May that even if you are doing a great job in your role at a reputable company, working alongside individuals who cause you stress. Discomfort can overshadow any perks such as salary, free amenities, or gym access.
Scientific evidence backs Perel's assertion. Individuals who have a best friend at work are over twice as likely to report satisfaction with their jobs, according to a 2022 Gallup poll. Perel highlighted that one's affection for one's job is heavily influenced by one's relationships with colleagues, as well as the sense of mutual appreciation within the workplace.
In 2021, Wildgoose conducted a Workplace Friendship & Happiness Survey, revealing that 57% of respondents believe that having a best friend at work enhances the enjoyment of their job. Additionally, 22% reported feeling more productive when working with friends, while 21% stated that friendship boosts their creativity.
Forming friendships at work may seem less straightforward compared to personal life, as office environments can be more structured, and certain conversation topics may be deemed inappropriate. Nevertheless, you can cultivate significant connections at work by consistently engaging with your co-workers, and here are three approaches to initiate this process:
1. Reach Out to Your Co-Workers As Soon as You are Hired
According to Stacie Haller, a career expert at ResumeBuilder.com, being the newcomer in the office offers an ideal opportunity to initiate contact with co-workers.
During the initial stages of employment, it is an opportune moment to initiate contact, Haller advised. Introducing oneself to team members, reaching out via phone calls, and organizing team meetings to facilitate introductions are all suitable methods to start fostering connections.
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2. Volunteer for Extracurricular Activities Within the Workplace
Work events may sometimes feel like obligatory social gatherings. Still, they offer a convenient chance to interact in a more relaxed setting outside of the office, noted Angelina Darrisaw, a career coach and founder/CEO of C-Suite Coach, in an interview with CNBC Make It.
If your workplace does not prioritize organizing events for employees, take the initiative to plan something yourself, advised Darrisaw. Even in the process of setting the agenda, individuals are required to collaborate and connect with team members they might not typically interact with.
3. You Have to Be Consistent
Haller emphasizes the importance of consistent effort in building workplace friendships, noting that a single conversation or social gathering will not necessarily result in lifelong connections. Simply reaching out once and introducing yourself is not enough.
Consistently being open and approachable increases the likelihood of forming friendships, which could contribute to greater job satisfaction and happiness at your job.
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