I don't think that necessarily true. I am friends with a couple of my direct reports, but we have a distinction between work relationship and personal. When we

I don't think that necessarily true. I am friends with a couple of my direct reports, but we have a distinction between work relationship and personal. When we are at work it is business, they understand my job duties and I am clear with my requirements as a manager. I have even had to fire a work friend before and we are still real life friends. I think the main distinction is to set boundaries from the get go. Work is work, personal is personal. Overall, however I would say that my personal relationship with my reports has led to phenomenal gains on both sides. On the personal side its always great to have people who understand your job and can relate. On the business side it brings a touch of humanity so that you're not just a rote machine making decisions, (contrary to some people's belief I see this as better). I think a lot of manager believe they can't make exceptions to rules for any reason, but I find that workers are far more productive and loyal to the company when they are treated with compassion and understanding.