Understanding Workplace Relationships

Workplace relationships are critical to how work gets done in organizations. While current research gives rigorous theoretical and empirical insights regarding workplace relationships, and what are often known as social networks, there are only limited details of the practical applications of workplace relations. This edited collection provides readers with cutting edge theoretical and practical insights from the latest research at the intersection of social networks and workplace relationships.

This volume has a dual focus. First, it examines the outcomes of workplace relationships, such as individual performance and how social network relationships affect attitudes and behaviours. Second, it examines how workplace relationships are formed and their implications with regard to friendship, trust and collegiality.


Drawing on innovative research on social networks, the authors examine the importance of workplace relationships across a broad selection of institutional settings. Featuring practical applied examples, this collection brings together insights from leading scholars in a practical and accessible format for academics and students.


 Alexandra Gerbasi is Professor of Leadership at the University of Exeter Business School, UK, Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Business School. Her research focuses on the effects of positive and negative network ties within the workplace, and their effects on performance, leadership, well-being, thriving, affect, and turnover.

Cécile Emery is Senior Lecturer in Leadership at the University of Exeter Business School, UK. Her research uses advanced social network techniques - exponential random graphs and longitudinal network analysis - to study relationships in the workplace and, more precisely, the relationship that leaders develop with their followers.

Andrew Parker is Professor of Leadership at Durham University Business School, UK. His research uses the lens of network theory to understand problem solving processes, knowledge transfer, turnover, performance and well-being within organizations.