How To Work With Those Close To You Without Ruining Your Relationship

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Have you ever wondered if it is “worth it” to work with your friends and family members?  Does “the messiness” that comes with navigating a business relationship actually outweigh the benefits…

Well here is the thing… ALL relationships are messy and lead to issues. And if you grow in your ability to manage these relationships they can be incredibly rewarding.  To watch this video podcast go HERE.

Let’s start by talking about WHY we would want to even consider inviting our friends and family to join us in our business:

1. If you are standing with other women in a circle and there is a woman standing alone in your circle’s vicinity – the thing to do is notice her, smile at her, move over a bit and say, “Hi, come join us!”  Even if she decides not to join your circle – even if she looks at you like you’re crazy – inviting her is STILL THE THING TO DO. This advice is meant for both literal and figurative circles. WIDEN YOUR CIRCLE.  ALL THE TIME.” – Glennon Doyle
   1. Imagine how your close friends would feel if you had a circle and you DIDN’T invite them…
2. Ecclesiastes 4:12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
3. Gallup research says it’s good business
   1. women who strongly agree they have a best friend at work are more than twice as likely to be engaged (63%) compared with the women who say otherwise (29%).
   2. When employees possess a deep sense of affiliation with their team members, they are driven to take positive actions that benefit the business — actions they may not otherwise even consider if they did not have strong relationships with their coworkers.

Now you might be thinking, ok you convinced me. But how do I make sure this isn’t a landmine? Skill my friends, improve your skill.

• Use Strengthsfinder to reinforce why you believe they will be successful. Give real evidence to encourage them instead of “but I love you.” That doesn’t quite do the trick.
• Set clear boundaries. Have scheduled times for business. Off-hours are for personal time. If they bring up business during personal time, that’s totally ok. But if you are going to bring it up, make sure you ask permission so no one feels bombarded. Be clear on who is calling- their business partner or their friend.
• Be authentic. This is one I have struggled with. I am more than happy to carry their burden, but not so quick to share mine thinking I might discourage them. They are your friend or loved one first. If you throw up your walls they will know, and THIS is what’s more likely to mess up the relationship. Your personal growth will help to build your resilience though, and help you with a more positive attitude as a whole. Invest in being better so you can be better for those you care about.
• Hold them loosely. Network marketing is a season for many people. Your loved one might not make this their last career, and that’s ok! Every quarter check in to see how they are doing with their goals, how they feel about things and such. But because you love them, never let them quit on a bad day. That’s only allowed on a good day.

I really hope that this was helpful for you today :). If you would like to continue the conversation and talk about how God is working in your business, join us here at our Facebook group.