As an employee- do you want to be a friend of your boss? Lots written about boss – employee but not employee-boss.
The balancing act between corporate loyalty, dedication to corporate performance, accommodating the directions and sometimes negative feedback from a superior, and being a friend can be challenging.
One of the “admired attributes” of today’s employees is the honesty and willingness of many to engage in constructive collaboration with their managers. The open door freedom to openly discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly is an essential ingredient in an organization’s continuing improvement process. When the discussion involve issues sensitive to the boss including their management style and decisions, neutrality and the ability of all involved to be totally open and honest is essential.
Freedom from fear of retribution or loss of boss-employee friendship are inherently needed. Will employees who are friends of the boss therefore take the risk and be totally frank and honest? OR will the friendship preclude them from being objective?
There is a middle ground. A position which can foster positive relationships, while providing a wide scope of freedom for the employee and the boss. It’s the “friendlier” alternative. A relationship where there is mutual respect: collegiality, trust. Absent are the “subtle” expectations ..
• Agree with me and protect my back at all costs ( Boss)
• Give me extra consideration for the prime projects (Employee)
• You know I am loyal so remember that at performance eval time (Employee)
• Working extra hours compared to your peers is part of the deal ( Boss)
• Cut me a break – don’t be overly demanding or harsh ( Employee)
• You are expected to go for cocktails (Boss)
• I need extra time off – you know- even if others don’t get the same consideration ( Employee)
Want more information? Contact Bob Handwerk, ph 262-903-1602: Email info@rlhassociates.com: http://www.rlhassociates.com
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