Prioritizing Friendships at Work: Employees' Willingness to Sacrifice Salary

The Value of Workplace Friendships

A recent report from KPMG reveals an intriguing trend among American workers: a significant majority are willing to accept lower salaries in exchange for working alongside their friends. Specifically, 57% of employees would choose a job paying 10% below market rate over one that pays 10% above market rate, all to be with close friends. This finding highlights the growing importance that social relationships hold within the workplace, especially as feelings of loneliness surge.

Loneliness in the Modern Workplace

The KPMG survey, which included more than 1,000 full-time professionals, also found that 45% of respondents report feelings of isolation at work—a troubling statistic that has nearly doubled since 2024. With remote work becoming more common, many employees struggle to forge and maintain friendships, with high turnover and layoffs further complicating the situation. Notably, professionals in telecommunications, media, and technology report heightened feelings of disconnection, emphasizing the need for solutions.

The Role of HR in Connection-building

As organizations face new challenges, the importance of fostering workplace friendships emerges as a key strategy for enhancing employee engagement and retention. HR professionals are crucial in implementing initiatives that promote social connectivity and a sense of belonging in the workplace. By considering HR analytics and people insights, businesses can tailor programs encouraging collaboration and camaraderie, ensuring a supportive work environment.

Future Trends in Workplace Dynamics

Looking ahead, companies will need to pivot strategically to prioritize employee connections in tandem with compensation. Sandy Torchia, KPMG’s U.S. vice chair of talent and culture, puts it aptly: “As talent leaders navigate disruptions from AI and economic uncertainty, we cannot miss the importance of fostering workplace friendships.” As the workplace continues to evolve, those organizations that cultivate human capital insights—building strong relationships and connections—will likely see greater stability and higher morale among their workforce.

Take Action to Enhance Workplace Culture

For employers and job seekers alike, understanding the dynamics of workplace friendships can help shape a more fulfilling work experience. Employers should strive to create opportunities for social interaction, while employees should seek environments that prioritize relationship-building. In a world where both compensation and camaraderie matter, fostering friendships could very well lead to a more engaged and productive workforce.