Message #68032

[msmarieh]

Much of it depends on how many people you are supporting. When I am supporting 7 or 8 people there's no way I can provide that kind of individualized attention. There simply aren't enough hours in the day.

However, when I have supported one person (usually a higher up like a CEO), then yes, it is not uncommon for me to have that type of relationship. Heck, my last boss, I knew more of his personal information than he did (birthdays and social security numbers for all of his family members - children, grandchildren, spouse), his bank account information and pins, his vehicle information - literally EVERYTHING. I was very involved with his personal life as well as his professional life. It was part of the job, fully expected, and in fact, specifically noted during the job interview by HR that it was expected.

In general, I usually have a semi close relationship with bosses, though. I don't have any desire to get too involved with their drama, but I do like to know in general about them as a person - their spouses and kids general information, likes and disklikes, etc.

Gee - I have noted your comments before about how little personal information you share or desire to learn about your bosses. There is nothing wrong with being a private person, but sometimes that can cause culture clashes in offices where everyone does know everyone's business (not my personally desired office either, so believe me I understand your reticence).

Sometimes we need to give a little in order to get a little. In other words, making a small effort to get to know the people around you and develop a more "friend"-ly relationship, like going to lunch can really help things run more smoothly in the office. The fact of the matter is though, that this can sometimes backfire as well, depending on the moral character of your co-workers.


Marie
Peer Moderator