Many people adamantly say, "DON'T BE FRIENDS WITH YOUR EMPLOYEES." Personally, I think work would be pretty miserable without any personal connection with your team. We are humans, after all. So, how do we connect in a healthy way that keeps everyone safe and functioning well?

I've got the answer! Relate personally with safeguards! Here’s how:

Be professionally vulnerable, but personally cautious: Admit when you don’t know something—it’s right and good. But avoid sharing too much personal turmoil. For example, "I’m struggling to balance everything" is okay, but "My life is falling apart" isn't appropriate for work.

Care personally, but objectively: Show your team they matter by asking how they’re doing and learning about their interests. But be mindful—what you learn can affect your objectivity if you're not careful.

Understand your limited rights to authenticity: Even if you’re having a bad day or feel personally offended by a team member, you still need to show up 100%. Your leadership responsibilities come first, even in workplace friendships.

Wait patiently for genuine, organic relationships: Forced relationships can become toxic. Be patient and let connections form naturally.