Favouritism is a nasty thing
Your workplace is a location that mixes many different personalities. As a result, you’ll usually find it easier to speak to certain people than others. This could start friendships, but it’s always good to remember that no one likes favouritism. If you start giving certain employees more important roles just because they’re your friend, then no one in the office will take you seriously. Everyone will see it as clear as day if you’ve been chatting and laughing together in the office, and you’re going to receive some backlash if you treat people differently.
If you’re going to be friends with your employees then be friends with all of them. Don’t single out certain people to create an awkward environment in the office. Treat all of your employees equally so that they don’t feel left out. Morale is important in the office, and it can only be built if you encourage all of your employees to work hard and treat them all with the same level of respect. Playing favourites can be a dangerous game that you don’t want to get involved with, so keep your distance unless you are confident that you can give everyone some of your attention.
So to summarise, it is possible to be friends with employees, but only if you understand the risks associated with it. It can make your entire office culture more friendly, but it’s up to you to decide if the risks are worth the benefits.
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