Office friendships are often overlooked but provide invaluable support, especially amid layoffs
Imagine this: a routine workday, and a message from your coffee-run buddy pops up with the dreaded news, “I just got fired.” Suddenly, the everyday perks—like hybrid work, a well-stocked pantry, and even a shared laugh over lunch—feel less comforting. As layoffs rise across industries, many of us are realizing the importance of one underrated perk: office friendships.
Losing a close work friend is no easy task, especially as companies face job cuts in uncertain times. Shaily Gupta, an HR expert with three decades of experience, knows well the impact of abrupt exits on workplace morale. She believes that handling layoffs with care is vital to maintaining morale, saying that losing key employees without proper support can leave a lasting effect on those who remain.
Yet many employees find themselves isolated when it’s time to leave. Farewell lunches and generic well-wishes often feel hollow. Shaily advocates for thoughtful approaches, like open discussions, offering assistance with references, and even initiatives like “Goodbye Circles,” where colleagues can share memories and offer support in a safe space. These gestures provide emotional closure, helping teams adjust to farewells.
This loss of connection extends beyond work performance; office friendships serve as a pillar of support, and their absence can make the daily grind feel more challenging. As Shaily explains, fostering a sense of community in the workplace—whether through support during exits or listening to team members—ultimately enriches everyone’s experience.
In a world where we spend a third of our lives working, shared purpose and mutual respect within office friendships can be even more valuable than perks. By approaching exits with empathy and honoring friendships, companies can create a culture where farewells aren’t solely a time of sadness but also of growth and gratitude.
