Hospitality named one of the most sociable industries to work in
According to the survey of 2,792 full-time workers in the UK, those working in hospitality, construction and retail are the most likely to socialise and find life-long friends with people they meet through their jobs.
Respondents were initially asked if they considered themselves a sociable person whilst at work, with the vast majority (73 per cent) agreeing. Of these participants, 49 per cent stated that they indulge in nights out or social activities with their colleagues at least once a month, with a further 13 per cent admitting their answer was closer to once a week.
Almost one fifth of participants also met their current or previous partner through work.
When it came to why those surveyed formed such strong friendships through work, the majority (64 per cent) said it was due to the amount of time spent together there while 52 per cent said it was because they had similar social interests outside of work.
Sharing the same goals and aspirations wasn't deemed to be an important friendship builder, however, with only 17 per cent of respondents saying that was the reason for the bond.
Lyndon Wood, chief executive and creator of www.constructaquote.com, which carried out the survey, said: "Let’s face it, we definitely spend more time with our co-workers than our partners, family members or children, and I truly believe that having colleagues that you can have a laugh with and go out for a few drinks on a Friday night is really key to job satisfaction.
"Not only will having strong friendships at work help ease any stress or pressure that might come alongside your job, they also make it less likely you will want to leave your company."
He added: "The findings that those working in construction, hospitality and retail are the most likely to form the strongest friendships with colleagues is not a massive surprise. These are three industries in which communication and working well together are vital components in ensuring work is carried out effectively.”
