New findings from Wiley indicate that despite the rise of hybrid and remote work environments and the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI), employees still feel a strong sense of connection at work.

The latest Wiley Workplace Intelligence report reveals that nearly 8 in 10 employees (78%) feel connected with their coworkers, and almost 7 in 10 (69%) enjoy building relationships with colleagues. Remarkably, about half of the respondents expressed a desire to engage in team-building activities to learn more about their coworkers.

The power of friendships

The data suggests that workplace friendships can significantly enhance employee retention. A substantial majority (59%) reported that having friends at work influences their decision to stay with their current employer.

The report underscores the positive impact of personal connections at work on mental health. Friendships provide essential support networks during challenging times, foster a sense of belonging, and alleviate stress through shared experiences and understanding.

“Feeling connected to coworkers is crucial for creating a positive work environment where employees are inclined to stay,” the authors note. “Employers should actively encourage and cultivate these connections in their workplaces.”

The report advocates for investment in team-building activities to build trust among employees, recommending events like team volunteering or group lunches for onsite staff, and facilitated learning experiences for remote workers.

These insights are drawn from surveys of 2,008 individuals in North America, spanning roles from individual contributors to executive leaders.