Successful Teams Avoid Leaving Relationships Unpredicted
In the modern workplace, the importance of teamwork and productivity cannot be overstated. New research suggests that shared experiences and workplace friendships play a significant role in enhancing performance across various professions, including the business world [1].
Being connected with team members helps increase productivity and better teamwork [2]. Disagreements in the workplace, when handled effectively, can offer creative solutions, improved decision-making, and better performance [3]. Sharing goals and working for a common objective helps develop friendships within the team, fostering a sense of camaraderie and boosting morale [4].
Leaders can foster workplace friendships in a hybrid environment to boost employee productivity and satisfaction. Key strategies include facilitating proactive and inclusive communication, implementing a buddy system, creating space for open dialogue and feedback, recognising contributions and celebrating successes, organising social activities, adapting leadership style for hybrid work, and using relationship-building statements to turn disagreements into opportunities for improving connections [5].
Onboarding offers an opportunity to get to know employees' interests and introduce them to the team [6]. Employees with close connections also report being more satisfied and are less likely to leave the organization [7]. Social events can help team members work together towards a common objective and extend team building beyond the office [8].
Similarities among employees can increase the chances of establishing strong friendships [9]. However, conflicts can arise when there is a lack of similarities or when people feel undervalued or get less respect [10]. Leaders can stress team-wide goals that can be done well with the entire team working together [11]. Common events can kindle friendships among employees [12].
Workplace friendships are vital for team members' health and satisfaction, which in turn helps get the work done. Disconnected work performance plummets, with employees having less focus on work and being reluctant collaborators [13]. High-performing teams prioritise relatedness, the feeling of being connected to others, as one of the essential prerequisites for success [14].
In conclusion, by deliberately creating a supportive culture that bridges the gap between remote and in-person interactions, leaders can cultivate a thriving, inclusive, and trusting environment where workplace friendships can flourish, boosting employee morale, reducing isolation, and driving higher productivity and satisfaction in a hybrid work world.
- Encouraging team members to bond outside the realm of work, such as through home-and-garden projects or shared lifestyle interests, could serve as additional ways to foster camaraderie and boost productivity.
- By promoting a workplace culture that values both professional relationships and friendships, it may lead to improved employee satisfaction and relationships, extending beyond the office and into personal life domains.
