The 40-1-5 method for making friends at work

The 40-1-5 method for making friends at work

2 July 2024

Social relations at work play a crucial role in well-being and job satisfaction. It is therefore more than just undeniable that strong relationships with colleagues greatly improve the quality of working life and also reduce feelings of loneliness. The innovative 40-1-5 method offers a simple but effective approach to encouraging sociability and reducing isolation in the workplace.

Understanding the 40-1-5 method

The 40-1-5 method is based on three key figures: 40, 1 and 5.

The number "40" represents the recommended time to start a meaningful conversation with a colleague. This time is crucial as it marks the point at which the feeling of loneliness begins to diminish, facilitating initial social interaction. Conversation topics can be as simple as the weather or recent activities, allowing for informal bonding.

The number "1" refers to the minimum number of friends that each individual should have in the workplace in order to feel less isolated. These friends can not only offer emotional support but also facilitate integration into the workplace by establishing contacts with other colleagues.

Finally, the number "5" indicates the estimated time before a person shares a personal anecdote during Team a creative meeting . Sharing light-hearted, relevant anecdotes helps to strengthen interpersonal bonds by revealing a little of your personality and your story, thereby fostering a warmer, more collaborative working atmosphere.

A few application tips

To apply the 40-1-5 method on a daily basis, it's essential to take the initiative in proactively initiating conversations and actively listening to our colleagues. Going beyond the first few minutes of conversation can go a long way towards creating deeper, longer-lasting relationships.

Developing friendships in the workplace can also be facilitated by informal social activities, such as coffee breaks or group lunches. These moments allow you to forge closer links that go beyond the strictly professional.

At team meetings, it is beneficial to adopt a light-hearted and sometimes humorous approach to encourage the sharing of personal anecdotes. This helps to create an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable contributing and sharing, thus strengthening the a sense of belonging to the team.

Real impact on well-being and productivity

Adopting the 40-1-5 method can have a significant impact on employee well-being and team dynamics. Reducing loneliness and strengthening social ties all contribute to greater job satisfaction, greater motivation and increased productivity. productivity.

A recent study highlights that employees who feel integrated and supported in their work environment are more likely to be effective and to contribute positively to the corporate culture. By encouraging open communication and increased collaboration, the 40-1-5 method can help to improve an organisation's overall performance.

Expert advice

Ryan Jenkins and Steven Van Cohen, co-authors of Connectable: How Leaders Can Move Teams From Insulated to All In, strongly recommend adopting the 40-1-5 method to cultivate a more inclusive and positive working environment. They argue that integrating elements of humour and authenticity into everyday interactions can transform a company's culture and stimulate innovation.

Testimonials from employees who have put the method into practice illustrate how it has not only strengthened their professional relationships but also improved their sense of job satisfaction and commitment to the team.