'Friendship mirage' | Why workplace connections are a hidden competitive advantage

The HR conversation has long revolved around pay, benefits, and flexibility, but recent research suggests that something else is stake in the workplace - friendship.

Sandy Torchia, Vice Chair, Talent and Culture at KPMG US, was asked about the finding that more than half of professionals would give up part of their salary in exchange for close friendships at work.

It is something employers need to start taking seriously, she suggests.

“Human connection has become the new workplace currency,” she says. “We're not talking about casual workplace chitchat, we’re talking about relationships that fuel productivity and spark innovation. Companies are discovering that facilitating authentic human connections is a competitive advantage that can directly impact the bottom line.”