We all know co-workers can make or break your workplace experience. Feeling supported and genuinely cared for by those you work with improves productivity, job satisfaction, creativity, and more.
But are you aware of how your co-workers impact your life outside of work?
A new study from the University of Bath in the UK reveals that care from a co-worker inspires people to be more supportive to their partner at home.
Co-workers have a significant role to play in enabling couples to cope with balancing the demands of work and family life. Over and above work policies, or interventions by supervisors, it is informal support from co-workers that stands out as having the biggest impact on an individual’s ability to manage work-life balance.
What does informal support from co-workers look like? Often, it means being on hand to talk about issues and general life events, whether they are related to work or not. Supportive co-workers are ready to help you problem-solve, available to step in and help out when needed, and express genuine care for who you are outside of the workplace.
We would love to hear your thoughts. Here are some questions to consider:
- What is your experience with supportive or unsupportive co-workers?
- How have work friendships been impacted by remote work?
- For Black women and other minorities who have historically faced oppressive and micro-aggressive work environments, how have co-workers impacted you, both inside and outside of the workplace?
- How can organizations foster more supportive relationships between co-workers?