Work Friendships Aren’t a “Nice to Have.” They Accelerate Your Success
- Erin Hatzikostas
- Jan 29
- 2 min read
There’s a myth floating around the workplace that friendship is unprofessional — that you should keep things buttoned-up, neutral, and “appropriate.”
To that I say: Absolutely not.
Work friendships aren’t distractions.They’re strategic fuel. They’re career accelerators. They’re the backbone of engagement, trust, and strong teams.
And no example proves this more beautifully than one particular friendship I detailed in my book, “The 50% Rule,” between Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG) and Justice Antonin Scalia.
The Odd Couple of the Supreme Court
Let’s be honest:Politically? They clashed.Philosophically? Opposites. Publicly? Constantly disagreeing.
And yet…they adored each other.
They traveled together.They laughed together. They shared opera seats. They debated fiercely — and then dined joyfully.
Their friendship didn’t weaken their work.It strengthened it.
Connection made them sharper.Respect made them braver. And authenticity made them better.
The Research: Connection Isn’t Fluff — It’s Fuel
My friend and workplace connection expert, Shasta Nelson, has decades of research proving that friendships at work:
Increase collaboration
Boost productivity
Improve retention
Expand influence
Reduce burnout
Build trust faster
Work friendships aren’t accidental. They’re foundational.
(And if you’ve missed my podcast episode with Shasta, go listen!)
Why Work Friendships Matter for Your Career
The right work friends help you…
Navigate change
Access information faster
Build confidence
Increase visibility
Stay resilient
Find opportunities earlier
Be more innovative
Enjoy the work, not just survive it
This is authenticity in the workplace in its most human form:Connection → Trust → Performance.
People don’t stay for salaries. They stay for people.
If You’re a Leader: Pay Attention
If you want engaged, innovative, high-performing teams, you have to create the conditions for connection.
Because people don’t do their best work when they feel isolated. They do their best work when they feel known.
Encouraging connection doesn’t dilute professionalism. It strengthens it.
Authentic leaders know this.
Your RBG–Scalia Moment
Ask yourself:
Who at work helps me think better?
Who energizes me?
Who challenges me in good ways?
Who could I invest in more deeply?
Even one strong work friendship can change your entire experience — and your entire career.
This isn’t about being social.It’s about being supported, connected, and authentically human at work.
Just like RBG and Scalia.
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Erin Hatzikostas is an internationally recognized leader on the impact of authenticity in the workplace. Learn more about her keynote speaking, workshops, and other authentic programs here.
