We’ve known each other for more than 15 years. We’re not on the same team anymore, but we still get to work on projects together from time to time, which we really enjoy. We share the same work ethic and can rely on each other to get things done. That kind of trust makes work feel easier

Richard Chen (he/him)
‌Operating Budget Analyst
Budget & Resource Management, UCSF Finance

Sarah Hislen (she/her)
‌Budget and Finance Analyst
Budget & Resource Management, UCSF Finance

Best Friends at Work: Sarah and Richard
 

What does it mean to have best friends at work?  

Sarah: I used to poo-poo that survey question, but I’ve come around. I’ve always kept a very clear distinction between my work life and personal life, so I didn’t think having friends at work was that important. But now, I think it’s great to have people you can trust and have fun with to lighten up the day. The first time I talked to Richard, I remember thinking he was so nice. We both have kids around the same age, so we connected over family and work. A best friend at work is someone you can bounce ideas off of and really trust. We can also be each other’s biggest cheerleaders when we’re trying to stretch our careers or try something new. It’s nice to have a good friend at work.

Richard: To me, that question is asking: do you have someone you trust, who is honest and supportive? A good friend at work is also a good team player and colleague. And being a good listener is one of the most important things. Sarah is all of that. She’s someone I trust. I can talk to her about work, personal life, whatever it is. Throughout our careers, we’ve always been very supportive of each other. When I ask her a question, I know she’ll give me honest feedback. That’s very important to me. She’s just an awesome listener. She listens to me until I’m finished, and then she’ll give me her feedback or ideas. That’s invaluable and something I look for in a best friend.

Do you have advice for colleagues looking for stronger connections at work?

Sarah: Coffee walks are a favorite way to connect. Grab lunch, get coffee or even take a break together. It can take some courage if you are new, but it’s worth it.

Richard: And it gets easier. Take the first step. Make a little time to talk with someone about something other than work. The more you do it, the more natural it becomes.

FAVORITE COOKIE JAR TREAT?

Richard — Snickerdoodle cookies
Sarah — Peanut butter blossom cookies 

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