HR file: The significance of relationships and rituals at work

Many years ago I was the office tea boy at the head office of a high street jewellery chain. Even as a spotty teen I was struck by the importance of the ritual. It was so much more than an opportunity to rehydrate; it served to mark out the working day. It also said something about status, performance and service; the role always being taken by the most junior person whose worth could then be judged by the quality and timeliness of beverages.

Most importantly, it was an opportunity for social exchange – a short break when talk could turn to things other than work and relationships between co-workers could evolve.