7 Unwritten Rules to Follow when Developing Friendships in the Office

When you work in an office, it’s inevitable that you’ll make friends with your colleagues. After all, you spend hours a day with them and often share common interests. While these office friendships can make work more enjoyable, they can also create problems if not handled correctly. In this article, we’ll look at the seven unwritten rules for handling friendships in the office.

1. Be Mindful of Cliques

Cliques are a common occurrence in any workplace. They can be harmful if they cause division and create an environment where some people feel excluded. If you find yourself in a clique, be inclusive of others and don’t talk about other colleagues behind their backs. Remember, your behavior impacts the office dynamics, and you don’t want to create an unfriendly atmosphere.

2. Keep Your Personal Life Separate

It’s essential to establish boundaries with your colleagues, especially when it comes to your personal life. While it’s okay to share some personal details, you don’t want to overshare and make your colleagues uncomfortable. Keep discussions professional and only share what you’re comfortable with.

3. Don’t Let Your Friendships Affect Work

Maintaining professionalism at work is crucial, even when you’re friends with your colleagues. Don’t let personal feelings get in the way of your work and always put your job first. Avoid gossiping or venting to your friends about work-related issues. Instead, find constructive ways to deal with problems.

4. Keep Your Friendships Under Control

While it’s great to have friends at work, you don’t want to lose sight of professionalism. Keep your friendships appropriate by avoiding physical touch or too much familiarity. Remember, your workplace is not your social circle, and you want to be careful not to blur the lines between the two.

5. Have a Work-Life Balance

Your job is just one aspect of your life, and it’s essential to have a balance between work and your personal life. Don’t prioritize your social life at work over your responsibilities. Make sure you’re delivering your work on time, meeting deadlines and attending meetings as required. Neglecting your job is a surefire way to damage your reputation.

6. Handle Rejection Gracefully

Not everyone will want to be your friend, and that’s okay. If someone declines your invitation to a social event, don’t take it personally. Respect their wishes and remain professional. You also don’t want to be too insistent, as this can make your colleague uncomfortable.

7. Don’t Favor Friends

As much as it can be tempting to favor your friends over other colleagues, favoritism in the workplace is harmful. It creates division and can damage relationships. Make sure you treat all colleagues fairly and equally, regardless of whether they’re friends or not.

In conclusion, friendships in the office can be great when managed appropriately. However, it’s crucial to maintain professionalism and prioritize your responsibilities. By following these seven unwritten rules, you can build lasting friendships while still thriving in your job.