Sunday, September 4, 2011

Friendship or professional relationship?

I got a call at 6 in the morning from my friend "Susan".  She was very upset: her husband has left her.

Susan is an old friend and I'm sympathetic.  They've been married nearly a decade and have a young son.

But Susan's husband "Mick" is also one of my direct reports.  I hired him on Susan's recommendation and he's a really solid worker.  He does a good job, is well liked in the office, and I've come to depend heavily on him.

I'm distressed.  I can't fire Mick because he's broken up with my friend.  At the same time, it will be hard for Susan to remain my friend if I keep Mick as my employee and indeed professional confidante.

What should I do, personally or professionally?

2 comments:

  1. Just keep professional with him, couples argue and make-up all the time. Imagine if they reunite in a couple of weeks.... or she is not telling you the whole story?

    ReplyDelete
  2. Have a meeting and tell him the truth... he may come up with a good solution like a lawsuit that ties your hands :)

    ReplyDelete