http://thegreatofficeescape.com/office-small-talk-part-2/ Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:34:09 -0600 hourly 1 http://thegreatofficeescape.com/office-small-talk-part-2/comment-page-1/#comment-103 Wendy Tue, 02 Oct 2007 12:28:13 +0000 http://thegreatofficeescape.com/office-small-talk-part-2/#comment-103 I liked your piece about office smalltalk. Here's what I think: If you're looking for lifelong friends -- that is, people who will stick around after one or both of you leave the job -- you won't find them at work. That's because it's the commonality of the experience that creates any kind of bond, -- like complaining about the boss or the work environment, etc. Once that goes, the relationship goes with it. It's been tough for me, but I've finally learned that the best thing to do at work is nod, smile, be friendly, and make "colleagues," not friends. This is especially tough for folks who thrive on deep connections. But just keep this in mind: Your work is not your life. Or something like that. I liked your piece about office smalltalk. Here’s what I think: If you’re looking for lifelong friends — that is, people who will stick around after one or both of you leave the job — you won’t find them at work. That’s because it’s the commonality of the experience that creates any kind of bond, — like complaining about the boss or the work environment, etc. Once that goes, the relationship goes with it. It’s been tough for me, but I’ve finally learned that the best thing to do at work is nod, smile, be friendly, and make “colleagues,” not friends. This is especially tough for folks who thrive on deep connections. But just keep this in mind: Your work is not your life. Or something like that.

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