Five Years Later: What Has Become of Workplace Friendships in the Post-Pandemic Era?

Five years ago, the world was upended by a global pandemic and strict public health measures. One of its lasting legacies has been hybrid work—and with it, a radically transformed relationship to the workplace. So, what has become of friendships at work? Is it still possible to build lasting bonds with colleagues? Here’s what we know.

Let’s start with some stats. According to a recent KPMG survey, the vast majority of workers recognize the importance of workplace friendships: 78% see them as a factor in workplace well-being, 83% say they increase engagement, and 81% believe they boost job satisfaction. Gallup’s research adds that workplace friendships also contribute to employee retention—a finding echoed by 85% of employers surveyed by Harris Poll.

However, one might ask whether the widespread adoption of hybrid work hasn’t made it harder to form close workplace relationships. In 2022, a Gallup survey showed that only 20% of U.S. workers reported having a “best friend” at work. A 2023 survey was more optimistic: 1 in 2 workers said they had a workplace best friend. Gen Z appeared to be the least isolated, with 63% saying they had such a friendship.

Thinking Differently, Seizing New Opportunities

Mylène Jean St-Gelais, an HR advisor, is quick to admit that she’s lost touch with some colleagues.

“Now that we can choose to work remotely or in a hybrid model, I only see the same people. Some just don’t come into the office anymore. You have to adapt and think differently.”

For Amélie Lamarre-Lalonde, a language editor, remote work has created new opportunities:

“In my previous job, I met my best friend because we were able to work fully remotely. I wouldn’t have met her otherwise, since we don’t live in the same area.”

That virtual friendship has since crossed into real life, with occasional in-person meetups.

Quantity Doesn’t Equal Quality

Karine Rahmani, digital marketing consultant and Isarta trainer, agrees that remote work has actually strengthened her friendships. In an interview, she reminded us that physical proximity doesn’t always lead to meaningful or lasting relationships.

“With remote work, you don’t have to pretend to like people you’re forced to be around five days a week. I think the friendships are more genuine because they require more curiosity and intentionality than when you see someone every day.”

She’s always placed a high value on workplace friendships.

“Remote work helped me deepen the friendships that truly mattered,” she said, enthusiastic about the possibilities offered by hybrid work. “We’ve never had so many ways to stay connected. I started my last role fully remote and came out of it with some beautiful friendships—because we also made the effort to meet up in person.”