Why I Would Never Want to Work for a Friend Who is Also My Supervisor

I have a friend who works as a supervisor. In that position she has a lot of input in determining who will and will not be hired. She is always on the look-out for good workers. I don't envy her. In my opinion, all too often working for a friend could lead to the demise of a good relationship. Here's why.

Being Taken Advantage Of:

Friendship often leads to taking advantage of that person in a working relationship. It's probably not intentional but in some cases it could be. This might not be much of a challenge if the relationship is only an acquaintance or someone you know on a casual basis.

Friends Sometimes Expect Preferential Treatment

As a supervisor you can't make exceptions to the rules if you have a friend working for you. And as a friend you shouldn't expect special treatment. That would not be displaying professionalism on either part. Rest assured co-workers are aware of what is going on. As the employee do you think you deserve that promotion based solely on your friendship with your supervisor friend?

Difficulty Separating From Work Relationship to Friend Status after Working Hours

Can you imagine being bossed by your supervisor-friend after work hours? Some people have a hard time separating the two. It can be hard on the relationship.

Performance Evaluations

As a supervisor, can you really be objective when giving performance evaluations? And if so, would your friend agree with how they are scored? It just adds more stress to the friendship and the working relationship.

It Could Lead to the End of that Friendship

The expectations might lead to the demise of a good friendship. While having a job is a necessity for many people, working for a friend who is also my supervisor is something I would never want to do. I might possibly be able to find another job but a good friend might be a lot harder.

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Personal opinion