So Your Friend Became Your Supervisor; Now What...

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Sometimes we're blessed to find a place of employment where we work well with our co-workers. Then there are those times we are fortunate to actually enjoy being around those people. You're seldom fortunate to find those who you can not only pray for and vice versa, but pray with, too. Someone who you both feel comfortable sharing the details of your life, your hopes and dreams. But what happens when that co-worker who you once felt close to suddenly becomes your boss?

The transition from friend to boss is not always an easy one. There are many things that will change as a result of this new dynamic, but you can remain optimistic.

The primary change that will occur is the expectations from your new boss. You must communicate to understand what is expected from you, and convey what you expect from your supervisor. Yes! You should and do have the right to convey your expectations from him/her; whether it is communication expectations or resource support enabling you to perform your job.

One of the more significant and probably impactful changes will be how you communicate. Where you may have gossiped with him/her in the past, or shared personal details of your own life this changes. You can retain the friendship without divulging the same information you once would have when he/she was a co-worker.

Eliminate gossip about other co-workers. Your new boss now holds more knowledge of others' situations. And as the new boss he/she must maintain confidentiality. It also paints you in a negative light if you continue in this mode, knowing their position.

Where you once couldn't wait to share personal information with that person, this is over. Find another trusted person, perhaps someone outside of the organization to share with. Unfortunately, those things you once trusted them with may weigh on decisions they have to make regarding you. Although you want to believe they care for you and would never use vital information against you, truth is you're wrong.

Any situation that could impact how you perform your role and when you perform your role can be used against you. He or she no longer has an obligation to you as a friend, their greater allegiance is to the company. Hold your gossip close and your personal information closer.

Other changes may occur as a result of having this person in their new role. The expectations of how and where you perform your job may change. Your schedule could change, along with other factors you have always counted on. Regardless of whether the role reversal is beneficial or not to you, maintain a positive attitude. Even when situations occur that you believe are unfair. Continue to work as if you were working for the Lord, and He will bless you in all you do.
  
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Colossians 3:23-24

I want to leave you with one other thought. Continue to pray for him/her as you did when you were co-workers. Your new boss still needs that, and so do you.

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Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey