Workplace congeniality: understanding the synergy of collegial relationships and social interaction

Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the role of colleagues’ relationships and social interaction among them in making the workplace congenial for female library professionals. Design/methodology/approach The study used a qualitative research method using semi-structured interviews as a data collection technique. Female Library and Information Professionals (LIPs) of HEC-recognized public and private sector universities of Punjab, Pakistan, were selected as the sample of the study. Findings The results indicated that library professionals had healthy work relationships as they had developed mutual understanding, tried to help and support each other and avoided superfluous reactions and leg-pulling. It is highlighted that female colleagues are difficult coworkers and are stubborn in some instances. For social interaction, they highlighted that they have good communication skills, prefer direct conversation with colleagues and try to sort out the issues to the best of their abilities. Library professionals highlighted some incidents of humiliation and harassment, and appreciated the collegial support. The majority were found unaware of the organizational/governmental policies regarding harassment. Originality/value This study is unique as it investigated the perception of female employees within a female oriented profession “librarianship”. There is no such study that has investigated the perception of female employees regarding collegial relationship and social interaction at workplace. Thus, this would be a unique and novel addition to the literature of librarianship, social science and gender studies.