Having friends within the work context can provide support and sociability and a friendly workplace is generally linked with positive organisational outcomes. However, this situation may not be as clear-cut as it seems - social relations can entail costs as well as rewards. A workplace study of over two hundred people explores the difficulties that arise from having close friends in the workplace. Although friendships may be valuable both for employees and organisations, the findings indicate that negative effects, such as the blurring of boundaries; having to devote time to the friendship; and distraction from work can create numerous difficulties. These can cause distraction and anxiety, ultimately resulting in reduced work outputs.
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