Befriending colleagues is a great way to create strong office culture, enjoy your work more, and have more joy in your profession. But, should you begin working with someone you already have an established friendship with? There's pros and cons to each side and while each situation is unique - it's worth viewing all sides of the coin before deciding to work with friends or loved ones.
Friendships That Can Take It
Before deciding to work with friends or loved ones, consider how close the relationship is and how important that is to you. Being extremely close with someone may seem like a great reason to work with them, but it's important to be realistic. Does your friendship have the following qualities:
- open communication
- a quick conflict resolution rate
- mutual trust and understanding
- realistic expectations of one another
If the friendship you're considering turning into a working relationship meets that basic list of criteria then it's possible to continue considering working together. If it doesn't - then it's probably best to move on from the idea.
Another way that friends can work together well is if it's more of an acquaintance which helps because there is less "skin in the game" and people can often feel more comfortable having hard business talks with people they view more as a business partner or colleague than as a close friend.
Of course, there are several companies, businesses, and real estate teams and partnerships that are comprised of friends. It can be done and be done well, but everyone in a high-functioning friend/business partnership will tell you to be careful and be sure to nip any conflict in the bud immediately.
Steer Clear of Mixing Circles
Have a great friend but your relationship is somewhat hot and cold? Maybe a loved one is near and dear to you but you often feel uncomfortable having serious conversations with them? If so, then it's probably best not to mix them with business. Especially as a real estate agent, your business and business environment is very, very important. Most agents generate their own leads and therefore can't afford to have anything distracting them or causing problems.
Making the Call
As an agent, odds are you get to make the call on whether or not you work with someone or not. Especially if you are a broker and do the hiring. When it comes to hiring an assistant, you may tempted to hire a friend. Be careful about the dynamic between boss and assistant. Not that it can't be done - but it should be done with caution.
Making the call to hire friends or not is tough and requires a lot of thought. Be sure to be as realistic and level-headed as possible. Working with friends can be a great way to grow a business and create a wonderful dynamic that makes you look forward to work!
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