Workplace Challenges
Friends more productiveGathering with the gang after work can be fun -- and a new survey suggests it may also benefit on-the-job performance. SUN WIRE SERVICES |
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 [ 2007-07-11 ] |
© 2007 Jupiterimages Corporation
Fifty-seven per cent of executives polled said that office productivity improves when co-workers are friends outside of the office. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of employees surveyed agreed.
But managers and employees aren't as aligned when it comes to just how beneficial it is to have buddies on the job: 22% of employees said befriending co-workers has a "very positive" impact on productivity, while only 2% of managers felt as strongly.
The surveys were developed by Accountemps, a specialized staffing service for temporary accounting, finance and bookkeeping professionals.
"Colleagues who are friends are more likely to support one another when presented with challenges or new responsibilities, enhancing workflow and team spirit," said Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps and author of Motivating Employees For Dummies (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.).
"Supervisors can increase camaraderie by sponsoring team-building events and giving staff members the opportunity to get to know each other outside of an office setting." Messmer added, "It's especially important for new employees to have the opportunity to build rapport with staff members. Those who are able to form friendships early on the job are likely to acclimate quickly and stay on board for the long term."
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