Friendship in Workplace

Yes, but be careful not to mix personal with co-working relationship. You said a different dept-- so most likely its not a problem!

M

Of course they can...I think that the essence of a true friend is the same no matter whether they work together, live in the same neighborhood, or see each other once or twice a year because of distance. It is whether that person cares for you and is willing to be there for you when you are needing to share a joyous or a sorrowful or stressful life event. Are they willing to be honest with you...telling you the truth in love when it is not something that you may want to hear? We have dear friends who live half way across the country from us, we see them once a week for a vacation together...but I know that they care about us, that they want the very best for us, and that they will always be available when we need someone to go to for support and a shoulder to lean on.

I used to think so but sometimes friendships of all kind fall by he wayside. They are that moment, then move on. I do keep in touch with people and one of my best friends worked with me years ago, but most of the time that appears to be rare. There is a sad aspect to our society now. People are protecting their jobs so much that the loyalty to friendships isn't there anymore.

I met my closest friend at work. We developed our friendship at work... and it lasted after I switched jobs. I was a bridesmaid in her wedding, and even now when we live on opposite ends of the country we are still friends. :)

Yes, I have a great friend that I met at work. I also met my husband at work. He's my best friend :)

Sure. Some of my best friends are those I met on the job. My matron of honor and one of my bridesmaids were former coworkers. I've had some work friendships fall by the wayside, but they were never that strong to begin with. Those that were strong when we worked together have stayed that way over time.

Why couldn't an office coworker be a true friend? Most of use spend more hours of our day with our coworkers than we do with our own familly!
I met my husband at work. My closest friends are people I met at work.
I recently moved from California to Louisiana. My closest friends in CA, people I met at work, are still there and still very much a part of my life. Now in a new work environment I am making new friends and enjoying the chance to have more amazing people in my life!

yes and no... depends on whom you are dealing with... I try to keep in mind that friendships in the workplace are just that "in the workplace" I do believe that every once and awhile, you 'll make a good friend or two but I wouldn't use that as your major source of friendships..... In my opinion, for about every 20 ppl, you encounter one good long lasting friendship...

I sure hope so because I have great friends from work. And while I work with people we all get to know each other better on some personal level and develop relationships. Most of the people I work with are men and I do believe you can have friendships with the members of the opposite sex and NEVER let it get to a point that is inappropriate. If that friendship extends outside of the office- I do think that you take risks, but honestly I can think back over the last few male friendships at work and while we have transitioned to new roles- when we see each other, our interest in each other's life is very genuine.