2022 Work Trend Index: Annual Report Employees who onboarded the past two years also need extra support. Nearly two- Work Friends Matter, Too thirds (62%) of leaders are concerned new or would support me in my time of need.” And employees aren’t getting the support they In addition to looking at formal workplace need since moving to hybrid or remote relationships, our research explored deeper research shows loneliness at work brings health work—and for good reason. The data shows workplace friendships. problems, reduced productivity, turnover, and that employees hired since March 2020 are • 59% of hybrid employees and burnout. less likely to feel included (60% versus 64%), 56% of remote employees have fewer work Hadley says, “Without a new approach, have weaker relationships with their direct “friendships” since going hybrid or remote. employee isolation and disconnection will team (51% versus 55%), and are at greater risk continue to grow—regardless of whether of attrition (56% versus 38% are likely to leave • This may be contributing to feelings of people are back in the office. The post- their employer in the year ahead). loneliness. 55% of hybrid employees and 50% pandemic transition provides the perfect of remote employees feel lonelier at work than opportunity to put the structures and rewards in before going hybrid or remote. place to facilitate a more connected workforce.” • 66% of respondents say doing informal Managers should prioritize time for coffee chats virtually feels like “more of a chore” employees to connect in more deep and than an in-person get together. authentic ways beyond the to-do list and foster Organizational psychologist Constance a culture that rewards psychological safety, so Noonan Hadley describes loneliness at work employees can be vulnerable and lean on each as the belief that, “Few people truly know me other for support when needed. 31