Do you have a work best friend? New research says work besties are the key to professional and personal happiness.

The Gallup organization tracked workplace relationships (non-romantic) and found having a work best friend is good for morale and good for the bottom line. The research showed those relationships are good for employee engagement.

Having a work best friend is proven to raise morale, increase productivity and help with employee retention.

Most interesting, the need for strong work connections has gone up since the pandemic thanks to an increase in remote work and a decrease in worker satisfaction.

Bosses: want to hang onto your people and make them happier without spending money? Create a supportive environment that encourages colleagues to interact beyond the scope of their jobs.

Employees: want to enjoy the place you likely spend the bulk of your day? Find a friend and enjoy life on the job together by vesting in each other's personal and professional lives.

The research is so overwhelming that wellness writer Jancee Dunn included the importance of work friends in Day 5 of the NY Times Wells series, the "7 Day Happiness Challenge."

My KCRA 3 colleague and work bestie Edie Lambert joins me in this episode to explain how we forged a deep relationship despite the fact we've never worked in the same room at the same time.

And we'll offer a four-step plan on how to find a friend at work.

• Why workplace friendships are more important since the pandemic

This week's podcast recommendation: Listen here for Ali on the Run