Research says that having a work wife means you’re better at your job

Do you have a work wife?

Your colleagues are often people you wouldn't come across outside of work but can sometimes be those you're closest to. If you've got a bestie at work, chances are he or she will know everything you've watched on Netflix, how you take your tea, the reason your mum is wrecking your head and just why it is that you're so emotionally unavailable. It's an oddly close bond with someone random in your life - but it works. Having a work wife makes going in every day that bit easier and not only that, it actually makes you better at your job. Friendships among colleagues can seriously boost productivity and job satisfaction, research by workforce intelligence company Evolv found. "It is this simple," says Dr Michael Houseman, Director of Analytics with the company. "Employees referred by their friends are less likely to quit and are more productive; employees who are trained in a generally 'friendly' culture stay twice as long; and if you have friends at work, you are more likely to stay at that job." If that weren't enough, friendships at work are also good for your employer. When staff get on well it means turnover is typically lower, communication between employees is better and overall stronger company culture. All a good reason to plan a fancy lunch or after-work drinks soon, we reckon.