In a recent LinkedIn post, Will McTighe delves into the profound impact of workplace relationships, highlighting the personal connections forged through shared professional experiences. McTighe uses a personal anecdote to illustrate his point, emphasizing that the people we work with can become some of the most significant figures in our lives.
McTighe begins by reflecting on the inherent value of colleagues:
One of the best parts of any job is the people you get to do it with.
He then recounts a specific instance involving a former colleague, Maria, with whom he shared an intense working relationship at Goldman Sachs. Their collaboration was so close that they were “practically joined at the hip” for 18 months. This deep working bond, often formed under demanding circumstances, is something McTighe identifies as a powerful, albeit intense, connection.
The ‘Trauma Bond’ of Intensive Collaboration
McTighe touches upon the unique nature of relationships developed in high-pressure environments like investment banking. He describes the intense proximity and shared challenges as creating a “trauma bond,” a term that underscores the deep connections formed through shared adversity and long hours.
In investment banking, you spend more waking hours with the person next to you than with anyone else in your life. It is a true trauma bond!
This observation, according to McTighe, speaks to the extraordinary level of intimacy and reliance that can develop between colleagues in demanding professions. He further illustrates Maria’s positive impact by noting her exceptional energy and cheerful disposition, even during late-night work sessions.
Cherishing Personal Milestones
Beyond the daily grind, McTighe emphasizes the joy derived from witnessing the personal successes of former colleagues. He shares the sentiment of celebrating a former colleague’s happy occasion, stating:
Seeing someone you care about on the happiest day of their life is about as good as it gets.
This highlights the transition of workplace bonds into genuine personal care and support, extending beyond the professional realm.
The Importance of Staying Connected
McTighe’s post serves as a poignant reminder that as life and careers progress, it becomes easy to lose touch with individuals who have played a significant role in our journey. He encourages readers to actively nurture these connections.
A Call to Action
Concluding his reflection, McTighe issues a direct call to action, urging his audience to reconnect with those who have made a difference in their lives. He suggests:
If someone came to mind while you were reading this, message them today.
McTighe’s message underscores the lasting value of professional relationships and the importance of maintaining them, even amidst the busyness of life. His post celebrates the human element in the corporate world and the enduring strength of collegial bonds.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Will McTighe on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on September 8, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →