Friendship at Workplace



A friend is someone who is personally well known by one and for whom one holds warm regards. A true friendship enriches our lives. But what role should a friendship play in the workplace? A friendship is a personal matter. An associate in your professional life is a colleague. The art of balancing between friendship and colleague needs tact. Is it so?



The Pro's and Con's



Workplace friendships can have an impressive effect on your career. A friend on the job can inform you on your company or on-going proceedings. He can provide feedback on your performance. Having a friend at work can make a job more enjoyable and productive. Many people get new jobs as a result of friendship networks, and companies often encourage employees for referring their friends for employment.



When a workplace friendship goes wrong, the impact can be very costly. More socializing impedes productivity. Personal or professional information can be revealed to inappropriate people. Sometimes creation of unwanted groups may lead to favoritism, exclusivity and negativity in the company atmosphere.



Now-a-days, the quick changing of technology and fluctuations in financial houses often make the job market more competitive and volatile. Changing of jobs is the new mantra! Therefore, is it not time consuming to create a friendship at one place and changing to another job after some time? Think return on investment!



Workplace Friendship is always Fragile



A job provides financial security. Your better performance in the company gives you more control, raises and promotion.



A friendship is maintained in case of equalities. When you change any one of position, department or the pay packet, the friendship vanishes.



A friendship may last longer if both shared identical values in life.



The right group of friends can have a great influence in your career. The wrong one can get you out of track.



So think twice. And have a reliable friend in your workplace!



-- Compiled by Arun prasath