I Hate It Here S7 E9: From Colleagues to Confidants: The Underrated Power of Work BFFs with Chris Hagood
Mar 3, 2025
In a lively conversation, Chris Hagood, CEO of AstutEdge and author of the PVE Professional Villain Era newsletter, shares insights on the rapidly changing work landscape. He discusses the importance of workplace friendships and whether HR should actively foster them. Chris hilariously debates if he’d take $10,000 to return to the office and tackles myths around job experiences and remote work. Plus, enjoy some quirky HR raps from ChatGPT, blending humor with essential modern workplace wisdom!
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Work Friendships Are Declining
- Work friendships declined over years due to changing workplace structure, remote work, and job mobility.
- Employers changed too, so the shift isn't just employees choosing to be less social.
Close Bonds Often Form In Toxic Jobs
- Chris and Hebba both reported long-lasting friendships formed at difficult workplaces.
- Hebba explained her closest friend was a former direct report and they share very candid, unhinged conversations.
Enable Interactions, Don’t Force Friendships
- HR should create meaningful interaction opportunities rather than force friendships.
- Provide spaces for human connection and productivity will benefit if friendships form naturally.