If you manage or supervise people, this is a critical leadership strategy that, one day, will keep you out of trouble, particularly if you are naturally friendly and approachable.
Between you and your people, it is necessary to establish professional distance. That is a slight, delicate zone of separation between you and them, even as you continue to be friendly and approachable.
Get too close emotionally or physically and you will eventually encounter occasions when good business decisions have to be compromised, due to the effects such decisions would have on the friendship. Objectivity and professionalism come under fire when the person affected begins to leverage the relationship and the implied bonds of loyalty the friendship.
No universal law mandates that you can’t fraternize with those you lead, but tread carefully. The rules of good friendship and of good business relationships are very different and often operate at cross purposes. When you go to a party with your subordinates: don’t let your hair down completely; avoid being the last person to leave; don’t drink and lose your judgment; be sure not to laugh at dirty jokes; and simply keep certain boundaries intact. Yes, have fun and be a real person, but maintain a slight but respectable distance.
After all, if there is not space between you and those you lead, are you really leading?
Questions:
- But doesn’t a boss need to be transparent, authentic and empathetic?
- And doesn’t this professional distance widen the gaps between staff and management, negatively impacting employee engagement and productivity?
I think to be an effective & productive leader, you need to maintain a discreet distance without elienating each other.
Yes I am in agreement with this article. There are times when tough decisions have to be made and once you are too close to a direct report you might find it difficult or not do the job at all thus compromising your job and your integrity.
I agree with your article Alvin. The discreet distance is necessary but you need not alienate your team in the process. Showing empathy and ensuring their professional development is the real indicator that you care.
They expect that distance and might be surprised if it is not present.