The level at which you should fraternize with your coworkers is such a fraught topic that a big old chunk of employment law is dedicated specifically to it. While it is often true that a job can be made more pleasant and fruitful when an employee makes an effort with those they work with, it also shouldn’t be necessary to force yourself to get cozy with coworkers when you are otherwise competent at your job and contributing to the team. 

Following the working from home revolution that arrived at the beginning of this decade, many workers have become more vocal in their criticisms of those cringeworthy companies that claim «we’re like a family here». Still, many find themselves clashing with managers and colleagues who expect more out of their relationship with them, even if they do great work. While being cooperative and cordial is a vital part of being in the workplace, this doesn’t mean that you have to be everyone’s friend.