No matter how many times you say that one of your strengths is adapting to change quickly, you know deep down that it isn't always true. Humans are creatures of habit and routine. So, when there's a change that affects our routine or habit, it can be very stressful and it could turn your whole world around.
One of the things that really causes a shift in dynamics is when your best friend at work gets promoted and becomes your boss. It changes so many things. You can't tell them how you're going to be calling in fake sick to work tomorrow or your latest work crush or even how lazy you are to work because your friend who is now your boss will now have to take action against you.
So how do you navigate through the awkwardness of your bestie turning into your boss? Here are some useful tips for you:
#1 Be Supportive & Talk About It
Throughout everything just remember that the other person is your friend and they care about your opinion. They might be feeling a little insecure and worried that you're resentful about their progress, so make sure you praise them and congratulate them on their promotion (and MEAN IT!). First, show them your support and that you are proud of them, then bring up the whole dynamic shift.
Talk to them and tell them that you're concerned about how it will affect your relationship with them. Show them that you care about your friendship and just want to know if you can still maintain a positive relationship with them even if it's not as it used to be.
#2 Acknowledge and Accept The Power Change
If you planned to ignore the whole promotion and carry on as if nothing happened, then, I hate to break it to you but that's a bad plan. The reality of the situation is the person to whom you used to complain about work and how much you hate it will now be the one who is evaluating your work, making sure you're doing what you're supposed to and not slacking.
It is time you acknowledge the change and accept it. That is the mature way to deal with things. Only when you accept it will you be able to move forward in a more sensible and understanding way.
#3 Talk About It With Your Other Co-Workers
Your friend who is now your boss was probably friends with other people in the office too and they might be feeling the same way you do about the whole situation. So, instead of suffering alone, go and talk to your other co-workers about your feelings. You might feel a little more reassured knowing that you aren't the only one feeling a certain way about things.
Since your work bestie is now your boss, there are some things you won't be able to do with them so it's better to get to know your other co-workers and form a connection with them. This way you will have people to talk to when your job gets too stressful.
#4 Don't Expect Favourable Treatment
Just because your new boss used to be your friend, it doesn't mean that they can now give you special treatment. They don't owe you anything and it will be completely unethical to do so even if they do! Even if it's just small favours, the other co-workers will start catching on and if word goes up to the superiors, your friend could lose their job!
Respect your friend's new position and try your best to maintain a positive and professional relationship with them to avoid any problems from popping up.
#5 Stay Away From Office Gossip
After someone you're close to gets promoted, the office gossip train will definitely stop at your station. People will be waiting for you to spill some tea on some of their new boss's dirty secrets and you need to be able to resist them. Spreading rumours about your own friend who is now a boss could create a toxic work environment.
Even if you hear people saying things about your friend that isn't true, stay out of it and let an uninvolved party deal with the whole situation. The best way to stay away from drama is not to get involved!
#6 Be Careful With What You Share On Social Media
We don't mean unfollow your friend who is now your boss, instead limit what they see on your social media pages. There should be some boundaries between you and them now. You don't want them seeing you partying on a Tuesday night because then they'll know that you're going to show up to work hungover the next day and that will affect your work performance.
So, no need to block them on social media, just don't let them see every detail of your life. This is also a good tip to remember in general when you have colleagues following you on social media. Remember the importance of boundaries.
#7 Most Importantly: Help Your Company Succeed
Friend or boss, remember that the most important thing about your work life is making sure the company succeeds and that can only be done when you are working together with your co-workers and bosses. So use that as a guide on how to navigate through the new dynamics. In every situation, make decisions that will help improve the company.
Maintaining a good relationship with your new boss who used to be your friend will help to ensure that you can work together effectively for the betterment of the company.
Has your work bestie ever turned into your boss? Share how you coped with the whole situation in the comments below!
