Introduction

In the opening chapter we detail why workplace relationships matter and give an overview of both academic theories of workplace relationship and applied research on workplace relationships. While current academic research gives rigorous theoretical and empirical insights regarding workplace relationships, these papers include only limited details of the practical applications of workplace relations. Likewise, applied research focusing on network practice tends to give limited details of the theoretical implications. This edited collection provides readers with cutting edge theoretical and practical insights from the latest research at the intersection between social networks and workplace relationships. We present two different perspectives regarding the role of workplace relationships. First, we examine the work-based outcomes of workplace relationships, such as individual performance, as well as how social network relationships affect attitudes and behaviors. Second, we examine how workplace relationships are formed and sustained and the implications this has for knowledge creation and exchange as well as friendship and trust. Drawing on innovative research on social networks, leading authors in the field examine the importance of workplace relationships across a broad selection of institutional settings in a practical and accessible format for academic scholars, and students alike.