We are friends...

I was truly inspired by a fantastic addition on LinkedIn on the working relationships at workplaces.

Having worked on four continents, I have worked with multicultural, lingual, and ethnic setups for some of the world's best organizations.

"I believe that working with good people matters because the environment is good. If there's a sense of respect and belief among the people you work with that is when good work is done". - Ranbir Kapoor.

This quote is by one of the known Indian actors. The significance of the message to convey is the essence of the title of the topic.

During my work experiences having to believe in 'We are a family' was contrary to ground realities. However, the 'friends' at the same places were doing quite better than the rest. Another shape of the family culture was groups of people competing negatively. This includes favoritism, and teaming up your close relations in the offices. It does not end there, it creates a more complex work culture yet people continue to work for earning and supporting their families at home, one of the main reasons to work.

Some workable solutions for friendlier workplaces help in the following.

• It leads to increased productivity.
• Lower employee turnover.
• Better mental health.
• Greater innovation.
• Employee loyalty.

In an article on the subject of creating a positive work environment by Katherine Quon here are a few of the best strategies organizations should implement.

1. Assess current culture.
2. Define core values.
3. Improve communication.
4. Handshake or puzzle pieces.
5. Recognize and reward.
6. Invest in employee growth.
7. Support mental health.
8. Leverage technology.

You'd be happier living and working closer with friends, why don't you? Top management should ask this question and ensure welfare, personal development, empathy, respect, and kindness are interactively implemented rather than only documented on paper as policies.

Another best way to do the above will be by third-party consultants rather than within the inter-departments. Let someone neutrally else advise on the strengths, weaknesses, and workable solutions.