What is a Clique?
A clique is a small, exclusive group of people who form a close-knit circle and typically resist including others. They are often bound by shared interests, values, or activities, creating a strong sense of belonging for members but potentially alienating those outside the group.
In the workplace, cliques form when colleagues frequently socialize inside and outside of work, share common hobbies, and build strong personal connections. While socializing and forming friendships at work can be healthy, cliques become problematic when they exclude others, foster favoritism, or create a hostile environment. This can damage team cohesion, lower morale, and even lead to higher turnover if employees feel unwelcome or marginalized.
The key distinction lies between normal workplace friendships and exclusive groups that harm inclusivity. Healthy workplaces encourage open collaboration and socializing while ensuring no one feels left out or undervalued.
