She Strengthens

The Harsh Reality of Firing a Friend

As a successful entrepreneur, I’ve learned that running a company comes with tough decisions. One of the most difficult ones is letting go of an employee who’s also a close friend. Recently, I had to make this painful choice, and it got me thinking about the importance of setting boundaries and making informed decisions when hiring friends.

The Pros and Cons of Working with Friends

Working with friends can be a dream come true. You get to collaborate with people you trust and admire, and you can take pride in providing them with a great work environment. However, there are hidden challenges that can put a strain on the friendship and even lead to its demise.

5 Essential Lessons Learned

After going through this experience, I’ve distilled five crucial lessons that can help entrepreneurs avoid the awkwardness of firing a friend and potentially salvaging the friendship.

1. Know Who You’re Hiring

It’s essential to thoroughly vet your friends before bringing them on board. Be aware of their strengths and weaknesses, and consider how they’ll fit into your company culture. Don’t hire someone just because you like them; make sure they’re the right fit for the job.

2. Put Everything in Writing

Even with friends, it’s crucial to have clear contracts and agreements in place. This will help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that both parties are on the same page. Don’t rely on verbal agreements or assumptions; get everything in writing.

3. Wait and Observe

When working with friends, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and enthusiasm. However, it’s essential to wait and observe their work ethic and performance before making any major decisions. This will help you avoid making impulsive choices that might put your business at risk.

4. Keep Drama Out of Social Media

When things go sour, it’s tempting to vent on social media or warn others about your former employee. Resist this urge and keep the drama offline. Not only will this maintain your professional reputation, but it will also help you avoid burning bridges.

5. Ask for References

Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for references when hiring friends. This might seem awkward, but it’s essential to get an objective view of their work ethic and performance. Ask tough questions, and don’t be afraid to dig deep. This will help you make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

By following these lessons, entrepreneurs can minimize the risk of firing a friend and potentially preserve the friendship. Remember, running a business requires tough decisions, but with the right approach, you can navigate these challenges and come out stronger on the other side.