Your Friend Is Your Subordinate?

In my previous blog, I had written about the pros and cons of working in a friend's company. Here, I am presenting the other side of the coin, wherein your friend is your subordinate. How easy/difficult it is to manage your friend in a professional environment?

It gets tricky when you hire your friend as a subordinate. Why? Workplace changes, hierarchies, promotions, etc. may invite friction in your friendship.

It is very important to set the right boundaries of authority, respect, and productivity when you navigate the thin line between a friend and a boss.

Here's how you can exhibit professionalism with your subordinate, your friend, in this case.

a) Loyalty to work - Loyalty and accountability should be given higher priority than your friendship. Clear expectations of work and productivity must be set at the time of joining.

b) Maintain professional behavior at the workplace - Avoid talking about activities outside of work, unless it impacts productivity and performance. Both of you must strive to achieve the organizational goals without hampering your friendship.

c) Promotions - This can be very dicey! Establish an understanding with your friend about fair appraisals and performance assessments.

d) Consistency and Fairness: As a boss, you cannot take sides in the organization. Treat all team members at an equal footing. Do not behave in a partial way with your friend. This will lead to toxic behavior among teammates. Instead, both should acknowledge the power dynamics.

e) Emotional Intelligence - You need to state the blatant truth and take tough decisions sometimes. Don't turn a blind eye to your friend's flaws. Friendship should not influence your business decisions of raises, projects, or layoffs.

f) Transparent communication - Never feel awkward to talk to your friend professionally. Practice honest and transparent communication with your subordinate. Be candid with your friend in case of harsh feedback. Express resentment if boundaries are being tested. It is easy to get into the friendly mode while talking at work. Mind your language and command respect.

g) Confidentiality - Beware of oversharing. In some cases, employees should not know about the company's sensitive information. Don't gossip about other employees over a drink.

h) Likeability: It is fine if your are not liked by everyone at work. You are meant to work for business growth. True friends will appreciate your professional attitude and not compromise your efforts at work.

Always remember, you have hired your friend, as he/she/they have the necessary skills to achieve the organizational goals. You are not doing a favor/charity by employing your friend in your company. As a manager, you are responsible to guide and support each team member and help them grow and succeed in their career.