While mentors offer insight from a distance, a buddy at work offers support in the moment. They're in the same trenches, facing similar challenges. This kind of relationship is transformative.
The Harvard Business Review reinforces the significance of peer advocacy by highlighting that when women support each other at work, both individuals and organisations benefit. The conversations and connections among women can lead to increased success and a more positive organisational climate. Implementing accessible support systems, such as buddy programs, can foster daily collaboration and mutual growth among professionals.
Intentional relationships are vital for women navigating complex career paths and pivots, especially in male-dominated industries like tech and finance. Read our blog “Connecting for Success: The True Value of Networking” to get our tips on how to network like a pro!
Mentors often draw on experience for their advice. Buddies, on the other hand, can empathise with your challenges and successes differently, as their present perspective is closer to your own. Whether you’re preparing for a presentation, negotiating your salary, or struggling with team dynamics, a buddy can reflect what you're going through in real-time and offer emotional support.
You don’t need to explain why challenges feel a certain way; they already get it. That makes their insights immediately relevant and relatable.
Your buddy is often the first person you debrief with after something goes sideways. They create a judgment-free space where vulnerability is encouraged.
Mirroring what we shared in Embracing Failure: Turning Seatbacks Into Opportunities For Growth, growth often stems from reflection, and reflection happens best in safe spaces. Your buddy helps you reframe, recover, and re-engage.
Peer bonds can be a pivotal source of motivation, comfort, and stability in unpredictable work environments.
Research from TotalJobs found that 60% of people look forward to going to work because of their closest workplace friendship. And 39% say those relationships make them feel more productive, despite the occasional Slack conversations about last night’s reality TV.
In a buddy relationship, you’re both learners and leaders at the same time. Helping your buddy at work articulate a tough decision or prepare for a big task strengthens your own leadership skills.
It’s reciprocal mentorship, and it builds your confidence as much as your competence.
Many buddy relationships develop organically. Others are built intentionally. Here's how:
In environments where women are still underrepresented, such as tech, finance, fintech, or AI, a buddy at work isn't just an employee nice-to-have; it’s also a smart talent strategy.
As the online magazine Entrepreneur explains, buddy relationships improve performance, increase job satisfaction, and even enhance retention. For companies serious about winning top talent, buddy systems can be a cost-effective way to create cultures of belonging.
Buddies are not just good for people. They’re good for business.
We know women don’t need to change who they are to lead. Instead, they need communities that recognise their skill and potential.
Your buddy at work will not be your boss or your sponsor. Rather, they’re the person who reminds you, “You’ve got this”, when it matters most. And in a world where the career ladder can feel lonely, having someone climb beside you changes everything.
If you don’t have a buddy right now, this is your invitation to find one and be one.
.png)
