And even if you or they leave, in many forms of business having friends in another company can be huge in providing a safety net or a path towards a better job.

And even if you or they leave, in many forms of business having friends in another company can be huge in providing a safety net or a path towards a better job. Socialization with others may be the closest thing to a union that devs have. If Amazon cuts your job, your old buddy who moved to MS might be a lifeline.