When colleagues become friends
The Culture Ministry
We work with CEOs and Leadership Teams to build successful inclusive businesses.
In my mind there are two types of people in the world. Those that keep work and home very separate. And those who the lines are completely blurred between work and home.
It may come as no surprise that I am the later.?
I find it too hard and too confusing to segment my life, so I don’t. If I’m in the office and I need to book something personal I do. If I’m at home in the evening and I need to take a call I do.?
I have never had two mobile phones – one for work and one for personal life. I figure that I don’t do anything untoward in my personal life on my phone, and work is only a small part of how I use my phone. I can’t even contemplate trying to manage two devices. My life is busy enough.
I only have one calendar with both my work meetings and personal appointments (sometimes incognito). Starting my own business has also made my calendar much easier. Everything is in one place and only I see it.?
In my view though, the biggest benefit of having a blurred world is that it’s easy to be authentic, and it’s easy to connect more personally with people at work and make friends.?
Sure, I have lots of connections on places like Facebook and LinkedIn of people I have worked with in the past, but would I call all these people friends. No all and not really.
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I do have lots of people I do call friends though, who I met through my jobs and now through my business.?
One company I worked at for only 9 months. I was doing a parental leave contract and met so many amazing people, who are now more than work colleagues. I often see these people when I’m travelling to Australia, and they have recommended me for work.??
Another example; this week the whole family is heading to Melbourne for a friend’s wedding. I haven’t been invited to a wedding in quite a while so it’s very exciting.?
Where did I meet this person? I met her in Singapore when we were both in Diversity & Inclusion leadership roles. We would share each other’s experiences and provide support for each other when we were struggling. When I started The Culture Ministry, I did some pieces of work with her and her team.??
She came and stayed with me over Christmas/New Year in New Zealand, and I can’t wait to go to her wedding. It’s fair to say we are now friends.
Do you turn work colleagues into friends like me?
Building inclusive workplaces | Driving equity, opportunity, and impact | Strategic Talent Acquisition and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion leader with global experience empowering people and organizations to thrive.
1 年This is such a nice surprise Lisa! So thrilled to have you here in Melbs for the wedding and to have your friendship and ongoing support for DEI work. X
Chief Operating Officer | Healthcare Operations | Retail Excellence
1 年I’m the later, like you. And totally agree on the multiple calendars and phones - too much for me to contemplate!
Diversity & Inclusion Ambassador | Board Ready on ESG | Coach & Facilitator | Mentor
1 年Thank you Lisa! I feel privileged to have yours and Emma‘s friendship and support in our line of work.