Unlocking The Work Relationship Magic: Lessons from America’s Finest

World’s Best Coworker 

Rambunctious regional manager Michael Scott from “The Office” was hopelessly optimistic and achieved a lot of his success by accident. It can be argued that maybe he wasn’t “World’s Best Boss.” However, his recognition of the importance of employee engagement, collaboration, and most importantly, fostering work relationships certainly made him a viable candidate. By inspiring, collaborating with, and teaching your peers, you just may be capable of buying yourself a mug with the slogan “World’s Best Coworker” on it. 

“The Office” turned out to be a hilarious and at times uplifting sitcom, with well developed characters that felt like old friends, incredible comedic timing, and most importantly, fantastic work relationships. While I wouldn’t advise a coworker to gelatinize their desk neighbor’s stapler, there is something to be said about the way the fictional “Dunder Mifflin” fosters relationships. While most episodes displayed clear and present chaos, it was certainly heartwarming the way this company acted like a family. 

Work Relationships Today

The work culture today due to Covid, rise in technology, as well as hybrid and remote circumstances is perhaps what keeps “The Office” in our hearts, as it becomes more of a rarity as time passes. The worst way the work culture has suffered due to such change is the lack of work relationships seen in a company or organization. When there is a lack of connection, employee engagement is more likely to fall as a result. Currently, the workforce is suffering from an employee engagement pandemic–50% of workers are constantly looking for other jobs while employed. 

However, in an environment where work relationships can thrive, there is an increase not only of engagement, but also collaboration, diversification of thought, and a positive environment. Not only should we be looking at our peers as collaborators, but also as people who could hire or promote us one day. The fact of the matter is, collaboration and shifts in perspective make us better– whether it be in the home, the workplace, over zoom, or in a board meeting. There is constant room for growth, and always a capacity to learn and grow, and coworkers have so many opportunities to bring that out in each other…so take advantage of it!