Nearly all workers surveyed say they have observed conflicts stemming from workplace friendships, according to a new report released by MyPerfectResume, a career and resume service. At the same time, most respondents credit these relationships with improving collaboration, job satisfaction, and overall productivity.
The Friendships in the Workplace report, which polled 1,000 employed Americans, found that 94 per cent have witnessed conflicts tied to co-worker bonds, while 73 per cent say such friendships boost teamwork and enhance their work experience. About 69 per cent have formed close friendships with one or two colleagues, and 27 per cent report making many close friends at work.
“While they foster collaboration, productivity, and satisfaction, they also introduce challenges like favoritism and conflict that can impact team dynamics,” said Jasmine Escalera, a career expert at MyPerfectResume.
Favouritism concerns
The survey noted that 70 per cent of workers frequently observe favouritism resulting from workplace friendships, which can lead to strained relationships and perceptions of unfairness. Still, nearly half of those polled say these workplace ties improve collaboration, while about four in 10 feel more satisfied with their jobs as a result.
At the same time, respondents acknowledge the drawbacks of mixing personal and professional relationships. About 31 per cent say workplace friendships worsened their work-life balance, and 29 per cent reported less motivation. Some also said their judgment was affected, with 25 per cent feeling their decision-making was compromised.
Lasting relationships
Despite the challenges, workplace friendships often go beyond office walls. About 65 per cent of workers say they are likely to stay in touch with colleagues after leaving a job. Workers also express varying opinions on the best setting for forming these relationships: 44 per cent say on-site work fosters ties best, while 39 per cent point to remote environments, and 17 per cent prefer hybrid setups.
“Balancing these relationships is key—while they can improve teamwork and morale, overly personal ties may blur boundaries and lead to favoritism or difficult decisions,” said Escalera.
The findings are based on a May 2024 survey of 1,000 employed Americans who answered yes/no questions, open-ended prompts, scale-based queries, and multiple-choice items regarding their workplace friendships.
| Key Insight | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Observed conflicts arising from workplace friendships | 94% |
| Report workplace friendships improve collaboration, productivity, and job satisfaction | 73% |
| Frequently observe favouritism resulting from workplace friendships | 70% |
| Feel comfortable confiding in work friends | 69% |
| Say workplace friendships improved productivity | 38% |
| Likely to stay in touch with colleagues after leaving a job | 65% |
