How to make friends at work

Are you hoping to make friends with your workmates? It is possible, and we’ve rounded up some of the tips.

Most of us spend a large portion of our time each week at work, possibly just as much as we spend at home with our family and almost certainly more than we spend with our friends.

So it stands to reason that you’ll be seeing a fair bit of your work colleagues.

Now we all know it’s unlikely you’ll get along perfectly with everyone, but you want the time you spend with these people to go as smoothly as possible — so how can you make friends with your colleagues?

Especially given you may not have met some of your colleagues in person before thanks to hybrid and remote work.

Never fear, because as a Business Insider article suggests, it is indeed possible to make friends at work.

The article states there are a few different ingredients required to brew a solid friendship: physical proximity, familiarity and similarity, as well as the sharing of personal information or secrets.

But that doesn’t mean you need to go overboard with the family’s dirty laundry. Setting boundaries can be wise in a professional environment.

Instead, try keeping things on a lighter note — people are attracted to positivity, after all. Do you love your colleague’s outfit today? Tell them! Everyone loves a compliment, and it could lead to a bigger chat.

Be sure to introduce yourself to the workmates you see around — a simple hello in the lunchroom or a smile in the hallway, for example. This can lead to a longer conversation next time as you get to know each other a bit better.

Many corporate workplaces operate employee social clubs. Make time to go along to some of the activities, and you might find you bond over the shared experience, even if it’s just to laugh at the awkward icebreaker.

If you’re not much of a talker, let your accessories do the talking. Decorating your desk can provide a conversation point — think photos of your travels, or a quirky mug or sign that shows your sparkling sense of humour.

If you fancy yourself a bit of a home chef, why not bring in some yummy baked treats for morning tea? The path to many a heart is through the stomach, and you’ll instantly be everyone’s workplace bestie. Plus, it gives your workmates an insight into who you are and your hobbies. Just remember to be aware of any office allergies.

Remember in all your interactions to respect people’s boundaries. If they seem like they’d prefer not to chat, that’s OK. Keep things civil, and you’ll be able to maintain that professional working relationship for as long as you share an office. Let the friendship develop over time and don’t try to force any unwanted social interactions.

Give it a go, and see how making friends at work can make those stressful tasks and long hours so much more enjoyable.