How do I manage a friend or former coworker?
Short answer
Have one direct conversation: the relationship is changing. From now on, the work conversations are work conversations, full stop.
The talk
'You're my friend and I value that. At work I'm your boss and that has to mean something. I'll be direct with feedback, the way I would with anyone. I'd rather we figure out how to keep both than lose both.'
Then hold the line
Same expectations as everyone else. No special favors. No looking the other way. Friends respect a boss who is fair. They resent a boss who is a pushover and then snaps.
Ask your version of this question
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