Our Coffee Break features answers to everyday work-related questions (otherwise known as watercooler/coffee break talk)! Send us your questions at corporate@thecorporatesister.com!
Q: My friend and I work in the same department, and are really close. An opening just became available in our team, and we’re both vying for the same position. However, I’m afraid this will ruin our friendships. What should I do? I really want (and need) the job, but I don’t want to lose my friend!
A: Dear “Friend at Work“,
I agree, this is quite the sticky situation. I remember being in a similar situation, and literally feeling stuck between a rock and a hard place. However, these situations are more common than we may think…After all, we do make friends at work, and more often than not, we can end up being in competition for the same positions and jobs.
First, don’t feel bad about the whole situation. You don’t have to feel guilty for being ambitious and wanting the best for your career and life. If your friend cannot understand this, then maybe you should re-evaluate your friendship.
Have an honest conversation with your friend about what’s happening at work. There’s no point avoiding the elephant in the room. It will only make things worse, and draw an an awkard divide between you two.
If possible, agree to keep the professional professional, and the personal, well…personal. If you can, commit to being your best at work without feeling threatened by your friend, and to respect whatever outcome ends up happening.
If the situation gets worse or ends up affecting your friendship, then you may want to reconsider whether you’re really friends. A solid friendship can, and should, survive work competition.
Readers, what do you think?
To Your Success,
The Corporate Sis.
