July 30 marks International Day of Friendship, a day when the United Nations reminds us that global peace begins with something simple, accessible, and beautifully human: friendship.
And while we often associate friendship as something born on playgrounds, through late-night talks, or over shared Spotify playlists, let’s not underestimate the power of friendship in the workplace – especially between generations. You are reportedly 7 times more likely to be productive at work if you have a close friend working with you!
🌱 Friendship is More Than a Nice-to-Have
The UN believes friendship fosters social harmony and development. We believe it also helps:
- Reduce workplace stress
- Increase cross-generational empathy
- Transform coworkers into allies
“Gallup has repeatedly shown that having best friends at work is key to employee engagement and job success. Gallup data indicate that having a best friend at work is strongly linked to business outcomes, including profitability, safety, inventory control, and retention.”
🚫 Generational Stereotypes Block Connection
- “Boomers don’t listen.”
- “Gen Z only thinks about themselves.”
- “Millennials are too sensitive.”
- “Gen X – wait, where is Gen X?”
These kinds of assumptions block connection and limit collaboration. But friendship breaks those walls. It says: “I see you, I value you, let’s figure this out together.” Friendship invites vulnerability and curiosity – two things every generation could use more of.
💡 3 Ways to Connect on Friendship Day
- Lead with Curiosity, Not Animosity
Ask open-ended questions like, “What was your first job like?” or “What’s something you wish people understood about your generation?” You’ll be amazed at what you uncover when you listen without preconceived notions. - Celebrate Weird Holidays
From National Margarita Day to Potato Lovers Month, find the humor in shared celebrations! Friendship grows in the small, silly moments. - Volunteer Together
Working together on something non-work related – like a community clean-up, spending a day at an animal shelter, or even planting trees as a team – naturally forges bonds and reveals shared values. “80% of consumers are more likely to buy from and 84% of employees are more likely to work for a company that stands up for the environment.”
🪄 Friendship Is a Powerful Reminder
Friendship is essential for living in a world filled with technology and distractions. It softens misunderstandings, strengthens bonds, and opens doors to collaboration we never knew were possible. When we invest in friendships, we build trust, empathy, and resilience between communities. We reduce stress, increase morale, and remind each other that no one has to figure it all out alone.
“In a world that can often feel divided, World Friendship Day is a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the difference we can make by reaching out and supporting one another.”