Having colleagues as friends. Yay or Nay?

It has been a month from my last post. Work has been pretty occupying. I finally decided that I must blog about something and guess what comes to mind? Having colleagues as friends.

We spend most of our time with colleagues and no doubt; you can not avoid making friends except if you have decided not to make one for reasons best known to you.

It is good you have these guides handy if you would want to make one. (Ladies in particular).

1. Do not make friends with someone who is liable to gossip. This is harmful as they will spread all information they know about you. Your private life becomes public. (Girl! I guess you don't want that).
2. Find one who shares similar interests with you. You will always be comfortable with this person.
3. I will advise against making friends in groups as it looks like cliques. Moreover, it tends to breed rivalry and misunderstanding ( ladies in particular).
4. For those with sensitive profession e.g legal/HR department, you need to choose a friend who is emotionally intelligent. Problems could arise when your friend's personal interest clashes with the organisational policy or legal binding. You also need to be emotionally intelligent and have a high sense of confidentiality before having a colleague as friend to avoid the tendency of  'talking too much to a friend'.

Right now you may be thinking, do I need to make friends in the work place at all? No need to be negative about the thought. Having a colleague as friend also has its advantages.

• Research has shown that friendship at work improves quality of work
• Having friends at work increases job satisfaction
• Having a common purpose enhances company loyalty

Unexpected friendships are the best ones

Do you have more to add? Why not share your opinion? Enjoy your day.