Friendship at work: the career asset nobody lists
Good work friendships make people more engaged and open doors later. Here's how to build them, including when you're remote.
Research on engagement has long linked close friendships at work with higher engagement and retention. Friends also become referees, mentors and the people who refer you to your next job.
How it looks across the region
In Southeast Asia, friendships often grow around shared meals and team celebrations. In Australia and New Zealand, it might be Friday drinks, morning tea or the office sports team.
Build them deliberately
- Ask colleagues about their work and goals.
- Help without being asked, and share credit.
- Join employee networks or volunteering.
- Stay in touch when people move on: a message twice a year is enough.
Remote teams
Schedule virtual coffees, use in-person days for collaboration and lunch, and work on shared projects.
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General information, not legal or financial advice. Check official sources for current rules. Cover photo generated with Seedream 5.0.
