When we have a work best friend, it keeps our sanity in check.
The work pressure and office politics can sometimes take away our happiness and that is when our work besties come into the picture.
However, having work-best friends can be a mixed bag, so there are some pros and cons that must be considered.
Scroll down to know them and do let us know how do you balance it all in our comments section below.
Pros of having best friends at work
1. Emotional support
Work can be stressful, and having a best friend at work provides emotional support. They can be a shoulder to lean on during challenging times. They can encourage you to hang on and are very understanding. Sharing frustrations and successes with a trusted colleague can improve your mental well-being.
2. Increased job satisfaction
Having work best friends can enhance your job satisfaction. Bonding with colleagues fosters a sense of belonging and makes the workplace more enjoyable. Enjoying the company of your friends at work can make each day more fulfilling, leading to greater overall satisfaction with your job.
3. Teamwork
Close relationships with colleagues can improve collaboration and teamwork. When you have a strong bond with someone, you’re more likely to communicate effectively, trust each other’s abilities, and work together seamlessly. This can lead to increased productivity and better outcomes on team projects.
Cons of having best friends at work
4. Office politics
Having work best friends can sometimes lead to perceptions of favouritism or biases. It is possible that your other colleagues feel excluded or believe that promotions or opportunities are given based on personal relationships rather than merit. This can create tension and a negative work environment.
5. Gossip and conflicts
There is always a risk of becoming involved in workplace gossip. This can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, or even damage your professional reputation. Balancing friendship and professionalism can be challenging, and conflicts between work best friends can effect work-related matters.
6. Limited perspectives and cliques
When you spend most of your time with a work best friend, you may limit your interactions with other colleagues. This can hinder collaboration and diversity of ideas within the workplace. It’s essential to maintain a balance between maintaining close relationships and engaging with a broader range of colleagues.
7. Loss of privacy
Being close friends at work may blur the boundaries between your personal and professional life. You are in a way risking your personal information or sensitive details that could be shared inadvertently or intentionally, potentially compromising your privacy or confidentiality. Many times, our so-called work besties can use a private conversation with you, against you if any issue arises and they have to save themselves.
