Inside Scoop

Recently, Sara listed 10 things — other than money — that people will work for. As I look around my living room, full of people here to help out, I can’t help but add two more motivators to the list: food and friendship.

Yes, it’s been a bit of a party here at the Taylor household, though even I am amazed how much work can get done when you’re having fun. And it is a lot more fun when you’re working with friends (at least if they’re friends as cool as these).

That’s not to say that there haven’t been issues, though. I’d be lying if I said that all you have to do is make some BBQ pulled pork, invite people over, and then watch them work — though my husband’s slow-cooked pork has been very popular. In addition to having good food, and work that people find somewhat interesting, you also have to be both a good friend and a good manager. And, you really have to have your priorities in order because balancing friendships and work can be tough.

When deadlines are quickly approaching, it’s easy to get stressed and… well, not be nice to work around. However, if you’re going to be working with friends and you want to keep working with friends, then don’t let work get in the way of friendships. By that I mean, don’t use friendship to pressure people to work for you or to keep working for you. Make it clear that they are free to leave if they get uncomfortable and encourage honesty. Most of all, remember to keep your cool and don’t forget to take breaks to just have fun.

The flip side, though, is that you also don’t let friendships get in the way of work. It’s OK to have fun, but you also have to be able to get back to work and not let people distract you so much that you don’t get enough done. If you don’t work well with a friend for any reason, or if they just aren’t interested, then you need to figure that out as soon as possible — before you get behind further, and before you jeopardize your friendship. Some people can be great friends, but not great co-workers. Just accept that and move on.

Now, it would be nice if we could all rely on others to do exactly what they say they’re going to do, when they say they’re going to do it. It doesn’t always work that way. Things come up, plans change, people change. It’s tough in any company, but when you’re working with friends it can be harder because it can be the source of a lot of frustration and hard feelings. That’s why, more than ever, you have to have backup plans so when people don’t come through, you just take a deep breath and move on to plan B or C or Z. For me, that advice is right up there with “Don’t loan money that you can’t afford to lose.”

Working with friends can be tough, especially if you’re used to their being a strict hierarchy at work. However, it’s also very rewarding — and not just because of the free help. Maybe I’m just weird like this, but I really enjoy working with people that I like hanging out with. There’s nothing like a good laugh among friends to help ease rattled nerves. Plus, I’ve been really impressed by the quality of work produced by my friends.

So, to all my friends working here with me, and especially to my best friend Charles (a.k.a. my husband), I’d just like to say how very appreciative I am for all you work behind the scenes, so much of it goes uncredited. Thanks, from the bottom of my heart! You guys are the best!