Consider it a benefit for business if co-workers become friends outside of the office, according to a recent study conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management, which finds co-workers who become friends not only enjoy working with each other, but they help increase business productivity.

The survey by Accountemps, a staffing service company, showed that 150 top-level administrators (57 percent) among the nation's 1,000 biggest companies and 519 full- or part-time employees (63 percent) agreed, "productivity improves when co-workers are buddies off the job as well as on."

Max Messmer, Accountemps chairman, reinforced the positive impact of work friendships in the article. "Colleagues who are friends are more likely to support one another when presented with challenges or new responsibilities, enhancing workflow and team spirit," he said.

While friendships are great for business, romantic relationships might not be. Read more in the June 27 E-Brief, "Cupid, Put Down Your Bow."

Refer to "Improve Workplace with Flowers, Says New PR Campaign" in this week's issue of E-Brief for more office productivity tips.

--Cassandra P. Foster
cfoster@safnow.org

 

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