Having strong friendships at work is a critical, if often overlooked, ingredient of happiness and career success. : Working from home is undeniably convenient, if you’re able to do it. But remote work can also get lonely. A Pew Research Center study found that 65% of workers who shifted to remote work due to the pandemic felt less connected to their colleagues. That’s a problem. Having strong friendships at work is a critical, if often overlooked, ingredient of happiness and career success. Their support, guidance and willingness to listen can prove invaluable in alleviating the pressures of a stressful work environment.