According to Gallup, having a best friend at work increases employee engagement, productivity, innovation, and collaboration.
Gallup researchers explain: "A best friend at work is someone you can rely on through thick and thin. Someone who has your back and genuinely cares. These authentic friendships deepen employees' sense of ownership for their work and enable employees to be more effective and sustainable, regardless of where or when they work."
The importance of quality relationships goes beyond Gallup’s focus on productivity and engagement. Research shows that other people influence our behavior. Developing relationships that are rooted in shared values has the dual effect of reminding us of our own values while also forging connections that reinforce these values.
Building Meaningful Relationships
But how do employees build these trusted relationships? The Anchor Relationships program is a step-by-step workshop that gives employees tools for developing better connections with each other—and these relationships in turn foster thriving, ethical cultures.
Here’s what people have to say about the Anchor Relationships Workshop
“[I plan to build new relationships with] people whose values and ideals align with mine.”
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“[I realized] why I am no longer close with my college BFF who had a years-long relationship with a married man—our values are no longer aligned.”
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“Every person I have a strong relationship with is someone I care about, so I need to make an effort so that these relationships remain strong.”
