Maintaining a cordial relationship with your colleagues and superiors is generally expected in the workplace. The purpose of this is to create a productive and positive work environment that both the workers and the organization can benefit from. However, there is a new term in the job market which is ”Work Family”. While a lot of people believe that it is professional, some others think that there is no need for such in the workplace. And because of this, there hasn’t been any solid consensus on the concept. 

What is Work Family? 

Work-Family originally refers to the idea of creating a workplace environment that imitates some aspects of traditional family structure. This means that apart from being normally cordial at work, there is a close-knit and supportive atmosphere among workers making them feel a sense of belonging, trust, and home-likeness. The idea of a work family Is brought up in such a way that it can increase teamwork, cooperation, and a supportive work culture. However, the topic has remained unsolved because while some workers see it as an opportunity to emphasize mutual support, understanding, and empathy among colleagues, others think it can blur professional boundaries and lead to favoritism or unprofessional behavior.  

See what people really think about Work Family 

Approximately 60% of the Nigerian workforce holds the view that colleagues and bosses should not be regarded as family, and therefore, it’s best not to become too emotionally open or share personal matters with them. They also believe that the concept of a “work family” should not exist at all in the workplace and here are the reasons: 

• To establish proper boundaries 

If clear boundaries are not set between personal and professional life, there is a high chance that conflicts and favoritism will set in. 

• To ensure Privacy

Regardless of how receptive colleagues may want to be towards each other, privacy is very important. Some personal matters are to be kept away from work. Although workers may be encouraged to seek help, if they feel uncomfortable sharing their problems, they shouldn’t. 

• To Maintain productivity and help people stay focused at work

Too much familiarity, they say, breeds contempt. Workers may be carried away with the extra camaraderie such that the primary purpose of work starts to become defeated. Employees may take the opportunity for granted and lazy around if work family is in place, hoping that they enjoy grace from their co-workers. 

• To avoid Gossips and Misinterpretations

One of the potential downsides of embracing a “work family” approach in the workplace is the risk of unintended consequences, such as the spread of personal information or the potential for negative intentions among colleagues. This is why some individuals and organizations are heavy on staying professional and leaving out the idea of work-family.

Should people really embrace the idea of a Work-Family? 

No organization makes “work family” a thing; the only idea most companies are particular about is teamwork. Whether or not to embrace the idea is a choice that should align with the values and cultures of the workplace. However, it is essential for individuals to feel comfortable, safe, and respected in their professional interactions. While the concept of work-family may feel excessive, there are alternative approaches to cultivate a sense of togetherness in the workplace and they include the following: 

• Team Bonding Activities

Several team bonding activities can pull the workers together both within and outside the workplace. A company can order Pizza and have workers play games while munching on the snacks. This perfectly does the job of bringing the workers together. 

• Recognition and Appreciation

Organize a dinner featuring recognition and appreciation of employees. When you celebrate them for their achievements, it stands as a way to express gratitude and also reinforce a rich and positive culture within the environment.  

• Social Gatherings

Nigerians already love social gatherings, so getting invited to one by a colleague sounds like a good idea. Organizations can also plan these gatherings which could be lunches, dinners, or formal gatherings to provide chances for bringing everyone together into an interesting atmosphere. 

• Flexible work arrangements 

Most employees just want an organization to show empathy for their needs. They want to be sure that the company has their best interest at heart. Considering this, companies can organize flexibility in work arrangements that can help employees enjoy their work better and be productive. 

Accepting the idea of work-family may not be originally a bad idea but along the line, employees may have reasons to have explored alternatives instead. 

What are the principles of a work-family 

The rules of a work family can vary depending on the organization’s culture and values, but here are some common principles:

• Respect and Support: Treat each other with kindness, empathy, and respect. Offer support during both professional and personal challenges.
• Communication: Maintain open and honest communication. Encourage dialogue and feedback to resolve conflicts and improve collaboration.
• Trust and Accountability: Build trust by being reliable and accountable for your actions. Trust others to fulfill their responsibilities and contribute to the team’s goals.
• Inclusivity and Diversity: Embrace diversity and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected regardless of their background, identity, or perspectives.
• Teamwork: Foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. Encourage collaboration, cooperation, and sharing of ideas to achieve common goals.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Be flexible and adaptable to changes in priorities, projects, and circumstances. Support each other in navigating challenges and finding solutions.
• Work-Life Balance: Respect boundaries between work and personal life. Encourage a healthy balance by promoting flexible work arrangements and respecting time off.
• Continuous Improvement: Strive for continuous improvement individually and as a team. Learn from successes and failures, and actively seek opportunities for growth and development.
• Celebration and Recognition: Acknowledge achievements and milestones, both big and small. Celebrate successes and show appreciation for each other’s contributions.
• Conflict Resolution: Address conflicts openly and constructively. Encourage dialogue, active listening, and finding mutually beneficial solutions.

Can remote workers within a company cultivate a sense of work-family, and if so, how can they make it happen

A sense of “work family” is possible for remote workers within a company. Here are some ways to achieve that:

Virtual Team Building Activities

Organize virtual team-building activities such as online games, virtual happy hours, or team challenges to foster camaraderie and strengthen bonds among remote team members.

Regular Check-ins

Schedule regular one-on-one and team check-ins via video calls or messaging platforms to maintain connection and communication. Use this time to discuss work-related matters as well as personal updates and challenges.

Create a Virtual Watercooler

Set up a designated channel or space on your communication platform where remote employees can engage in casual conversations, share updates, and bond over non-work-related topics.

Encourage Peer Support

Facilitate opportunities for remote workers to support each other through mentorship programs, buddy systems, or peer-to-peer coaching initiatives.

Transparent Communication

Foster a culture of transparency by providing regular updates on company news, goals, and strategies. Encourage open communication and feedback to ensure that remote employees feel informed and included.

Celebrate Milestones and Achievements

Acknowledge and celebrate remote employees’ milestones, achievements, and birthdays. Consider sending personalized notes, and gifts, or hosting virtual celebrations to make remote team members feel appreciated and valued.

Promote Flexibility

Offer flexibility in work schedules and encourage remote workers to take breaks and recharge as needed. Respect boundaries between work and personal life to prevent burnout and foster a healthy work-life balance.

Invest in Technology and Tools

Provide remote employees with the necessary technology, tools, and resources to effectively collaborate, communicate, and perform their jobs remotely. Offer training and support to help them maximize the use of these tools.

Promote Inclusivity and Diversity

Ensure that remote workers feel included and valued by promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives. Create opportunities for remote employees to participate in company-wide events, committees, and initiatives.

Lead by Example

Leaders and managers should lead by example by demonstrating empathy, understanding, and support for remote workers. Be accessible, responsive, and proactive in addressing remote employees’ needs and concerns.

By implementing these strategies, companies can create a sense of “work family” among remote workers and foster a supportive and inclusive remote work culture.