According to research from UK jobs site CV-Library, 87.3% of professionals would not let friendships in the workplace get in the way of career progression.

CV-Library conducted a survey of over 1,600 UK workers to uncover attitudes toward socialising in the workplace, and how it affects career progression.

“Today’s job market is extremely competitive and one of the keys to success is having the drive and ambition to reach the top,” Lee Biggins, founder and managing director of CV-Library, said. “Of course there also needs to be a balance; having a strong network of friends and business contacts is extremely important, so building relationships will always be central to progression. Just make sure you keep them professional. The most successful business people have achieved their ambitions through hard-work and dedication to their goals.”

The research also revealed that 8.9% of workers have left their dream job after falling out with their work friends, and 19.1% have stayed in a job they hate just so they can remain close to their work friends.

“Staying in a job that lacks opportunity, just because you have good friends in the office is a big mistake,” Biggins said. “Whilst it’s important to be happy at work, today’s job market is booming – CV-Library reported an 8.1% job growth year-on-year this April – meaning there are plenty of opportunities out there. Today’s professionals need to be proactive in their career, and with jobs on the rise, it’s a good time to update your CV, get it online and start looking for your next big career move.”