The friendship factor: How workplace friendships impact employees’ mental health and wellbeing

Friendly competition, enhanced productivity, and increased job satisfaction are just a few of the benefits that come from cultivating workplace friendships. 

In the demanding pace of today's work environment, employees encounter various challenges that can impact their mental health and overall wellbeing. While organisations often focus on wellness initiatives and mental health resources, one of the most effective yet overlooked strategies for boosting employee wellbeing is fostering workplace friendships.  

With International Friendship Day being celebrated annually on 6 August 2024, it's a perfect moment for HR professionals to consider the significance of these relationships and how they can positively affect mental health in the workplace. Sarah Gideon shares her insights on what she believes are the benefits of having workplaces friendships. 

Benefits of having workplace friendships  

Workplace friendships are more than just casual conversations at the pantry. These relationships provide emotional support, reduce stress, and foster a sense of belonging - all of which are critical for one’s mental health. 

In addition, employees who have friends at work are more likely to feel connected to their company, leading to increased job satisfaction and reduced feelings of isolation. 

According to a 2021 survey by Wildgoose, nearly 57% of employees feel that having a good friend at the office makes their job more enjoyable. 

Moreover, the survey revealed how having a work best friend impacts their job. The results were as follows:  

Building on the above, here are nine benefits of fostering workplace friendships, as shared below: 

• Increased job satisfaction

Having friends at work can make your daily tasks more enjoyable. Knowing that you have colleagues who care about you can turn even mundane tasks into more positive experiences, contributing to higher job satisfaction.

• Emotional support

Workplace friends are there to offer empathy and understanding during tough times. Whether you’re dealing with a challenging project or personal issues, having someone who understands your work context can be incredibly comforting.

• Enhanced collaboration

Friends tend to communicate more openly and honestly, leading to smoother collaboration. This can result in more effective teamwork, where ideas flow freely, and issues are resolved more quickly.

• Increased productivity

The trust and camaraderie shared with workplace friends can lead to increased motivation and productivity. When you enjoy the company of your colleagues, you're more likely to stay engaged and committed to your work.

• Lower employee turnover rate

Employees who have strong friendships at work are more likely to stay with the company. The emotional bonds they form can outweigh other factors, such as job dissatisfaction or the lure of higher pay elsewhere.

• Increased sense of belonging

Workplace friendships create a sense of community and belonging. Feeling connected to your colleagues can make the work environment more inclusive and supportive, which is essential for overall wellbeing.

• Career growth

Friends at work can be valuable sources of advice, mentorship, and support. They might share insights about career opportunities, help you navigate office politics, or offer encouragement when you’re pursuing a promotion or new role.

• Work-life balance

Having friendships at the office add a social dimension to your job that can help reduce stress and prevent burnout. Social interactions at work can provide a mental break from tasks, contributing to better overall wellbeing.

• Cultural fit

Friends at work can help you better understand and navigate the company culture. They can provide insights into unwritten rules, social norms, and expectations, making it easier for you to fit in and succeed within the organisation.

How can HR do to nurture workplace friendships? 

HR professionals play a crucial role in creating an environment where workplace friendships can flourish. Here are some initiatives that HR can implement to foster these relationships: 

• Team-building activities: Having regular team-building exercises, both in-person and virtual, can help employees bond and develop friendships. These activities can range from informal social gatherings to structured team challenges that encourage collaboration. 

• Buddy programmes: Implementing mentorship programmes where new employees are paired with more experienced colleagues can facilitate the formation of friendships. These relationships will often extend beyond professional guidance and evolve into meaningful connections. 

• Inclusive work culture: Promote an inclusive culture where everyone feels welcome and valued. Encourage open communication and discourage cliques or exclusionary behaviour that can hinder the formation of friendships. 

• Wellness programmes: Incorporating group wellness activities, such as yoga sessions, walking clubs, or mindfulness workshops, where employees can interact in a relaxed setting, is a great way to build friendships while also supporting mental health. 

On top of implementing these strategies, is it important for HR to keep track the impact of workplace friendships on employees’ mental health and wellbeing through employee surveys, feedback sessions, and engagement metrics.  

All in all, it is important to recognise that friendships at work are not just a nice-to-have — they are essential for the mental and emotional wellbeing of all employees within the organisation. By fostering an environment where these relationships can thrive, HR can play a key role in enhancing employee satisfaction, reducing stress, and ultimately creating a happier, more productive workplace. 

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Infographics / Wildgoose survey