CoWorker Socialization

Is it Required?
    Ever wonder how much socializing with you coworkers is required to be successful in the work environment?  "Socializing with your coworkers is essential for your career," says Alexander Kjerulf, an international author and speaker on happiness at work.  "If you're not able to relate to your coworkers as human beings and build positive relationships, your career will suffer.  Also, employees who have positive workplace relationships are happier at work and we know that people who are happy at work are more productive, more creative, and more successful overall."
What is the right amount?
    The right amount of coworker socialization sometimes depends on the type of company you are working for.  In small companies, a lot more socialization is required, so there can be more socializing in that small team environment.  At larger companies, the atmosphere is a lot more conservative and there's an unspoken culture of less socialization.  Some companies, regardless of the size, promote a more social, team-oriented workplace.  Others like to be strictly business, with a much more formal level of conversation.
What type of Socialization?
    Connecting with coworkers can be very helpful if you are in that type of workplace.  It is especially useful if you need to help persuade people in order to reach a common goal that you have worked hard towards achieving.  It is also useful for growing your own emotional and social intelligence skills.  However, you need to be careful with what type of socializing you do at the workplace.  It's one thing to show genuine concern for fellow employees.  It's another to divulge your entire private life to a coworker.  You always have to walk that delicate line.
Where should you Socialize?
    It's most important that socialize in the workplace.  It's always important to take advantage of break times to talk about things other than work.  It's also good to have small office celebrations for birthdays, etc.  Cali Williams Yost, author of "Tweak It: Make What Matters to You Happen Every Day" says, "As a rule of thumb you should only socialize with coworkers in situations where you are most likely to showcase your best behaviors."  Some of the best places to socialize are at activities directly related to the company, such as company picnics, and other company-sponsered events.
How not to Socialize
    Heavy partying and office romances are not good ways to socialize with your coworkers.  Although these things can be very tempting, they tend to upset others at your company.  Remember, it is important that you are on your best behavior when socializing with your coworkers.  Also, with the popularity of smart phones, the last thing you want is to have an embarrassing picture of you ending up on Facebook or some other social media site.  Keep in mind that the last thing you want to do is give the manager a reason to want to fire you.
References:
1. Smith, J. (2013, June 24). How Much Coworker Socializing is Good for Your Career? Retrieved May 24, 2015.