They’re becoming less common as remote and hybrid work get more prevalent.
But is now the time when we need them the most?
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A colleague became my confidante.
It was a relief to have someone who knewwhyI needed a little extra time to get things done.
When I opened the package, I started sobbing.
Since then, the term has evolved.
Those who we share an in-this-together attitude."
There are the obvious reasons why weve become divorced from the idea.
Remote, hybrid, and communicating-mostly-on-Slack work make for tough bond-building.
There are no midday runs for coffee or post-work happy hours.
Scheduled syncs online just dont have the same effect.
Weve mentored each other through promotions and job and career changes.
But as work has changed, our beliefs have, too.
Perhaps, in part, because theres been a move away from the familial tone that work took on.
We see that now.
As with any relationship, perhaps the answer isnt to end it, but to work on it.
Which may mean being more intentional about creating moments for small talk.
Call that whatever you want.
This story originally appeared in the2024 Changemakers Issue.
Leave your ballet flats in your checked bag.
Uncle Harry for the gifting win.
