Making friends at school was so easy when we were little. We smiled at each other, saw what they were playing with and asked if we could join them on the slides. All was fine in the world. But when making friends at work, it can be daunting. You don’t know them at all! What brings them to work besides a paycheck is out of the question. School was easy since we were all grouped by age. So how do we make friends at work? 

Making friends at work can make your 9-to-5 (or longer) life a whole lot brighter. Whether you’re starting a new job or trying to break out of your shyness, work friends don’t have to feel awkward. Just take a look at Selling Sunset, Selling the OC or Selling the City on Netflix. It’s all about work + friends + (a whole lot of drama!). But ignore the drama for now!

Here are some ways to help you make friends at work.  

1. Smile like a Star

Start with a smile Like when we were young. This sounds simple right? But it works. Smiling makes you feel more approachable. Passing someone in the hall or in the break room or in the common space, a smile can set the stage for friendly interactions. 

2. Say Hi

Don’t be shy and wait for others to come to you. Just say Hi! But don’t just say Hi and then suddenly leave. Say “Hi! How’s it going?” Start the conversation – see where it leads. See if the person wants to communicate. These small exchanges can grow into deeper conversations – maybe you find out that they are going ice skating on the weekend and well you love ice skating. Find a common connection.

3. Bond Over Coffee or Lunch

As you make conversations with co-workers, you have a feel of who you would like to talk more with…so invite a co-worker to grab a coffee with you or sit together at lunch. A casual setting outside the office vibe often makes people more open and relaxed. Plus, who doesn’t bond over food?

4. Offer Compliments (Genuinely)

Be kind to others – genuinely. If you compliment someone at work, whether it’s their great presentation or their desk plant. Whatever the case may be – a genuine compliment can break the ice and bring you closer. 

“I enjoyed your presentation.”

“Really, thanks. I was a bit nervous.”

“You killed it, I couldn’t tell.”

“Thanks. I’m glad you liked it. Listen, I have to do another presentation, do you mind if I do a practice run with you?”

“Of course, we can chat about it at lunch?”

“Awesome. Thanks!”

5. Find Common Ground

Discover shared interests by asking open-ended questions:

• “Have you seen any good movies lately?”
• “What do you like to do for fun?”
• Any favourite restaurants you recommend?
• What books have you been reading? I really like…

Chances are, you’ll find something to connect on, whether it’s your favourite television shows, hobbies, or sports teams.

6. Participate in Office Events 

Who said office events were boring? Okay maybe…well it depends on who’s organizing it. A lecture on understanding the Science of Geology. Snooze Fest! Unless you are so totally into it, then go for it. You will meet people with the same interest as you. But we’re talking team lunches, book clubs, office yoga sessions and even office parties. Getting involved in social activities can help you meet people organically. Bond over some party games, or the chapter of a book and well – there you go – you found someone who you can talk to. Chances are you may have some similar interests.  

7. Lend a Helping Hand

Let’s just say someone is drowning in work. They are constantly working late and seem overwhelmed. Ask them if you can offer to help. Small acts of kindness can leave a lasting impression and show that you’re a team player. This helps with team morale and it’s just overall nice. 

8. Share (a Little) About Yourself

Building friendships requires give and take. Share small snippets about your weekend plans, pets or favourite pastimes. This invites others to do the same, paving the way for connection. If you start talking about yourself, so will others. These connections help build stronger bonds. 

9. Be Consistent

Friendships don’t form overnight. Keep showing up for those casual chats, coffee breaks, or group outings. Consistency builds trust and strengthens bonds. The more someone sees you – the more likely they will start a conversation and want to hang out with you during work. Maybe work on a project together or go to office parties together instead of being on your own. It definitely helps make the job a little less boring. 

10. Respect Boundaries

Lastly, not everyone is looking for work friendships and that’s okay. Be mindful of how people respond to your efforts and adjust accordingly. If someone doesn’t want to speak, don’t push them. They can be shy or just not looking for any friends. And that’s okay. Speak to a group of people and see who is accepting your conversations and want to converse. They are probably looking for a work friend too. 

Finally, 

Making friends at work doesn’t have to feel like a chore. By being approachable, taking small steps and showing genuine interest in others, you’ll build meaningful connections before you know it. And remember—every great friendship starts with a simple “Hi!” So, go ahead, give it a try. Don’t be too hard on yourself and remember it takes time. It’s not a one shot thing. 

Go for it Rakstars!