Friendships at work are usually a good thing. Research has shown they can make work teams more cohesive and productive as well as resulting in more engaged employees.

In some situations, however, they can create uncomfortable situations. That is especially true when the friendship is between people at different levels in the organizational hierarchy.

Brandon Smith explains why that creates messy situations and what to do about it.

Brandon Smith teaches about leadership, communication, and workplace culture at Emory University's Goizueta Business School. More of his advice is on his blog and at theworkplacetherapist.com. While you’re there, ask him your workplace or career question. We might use your question on a future radio segment.

Tags: career counseling, Brandon Smith, workplace, working, career, Friends