Over the past 2 years, I have become reasonably friendly with the Mum of a girl in dd's school class. We don't confide our deepest thoughts/feelings on things, but we do commiserate about our children, their school/teachers, etc. The girls have playdates and sleepovers regularly, so I see this family outside of school fairly frequently.
I like the Mum, though hold back a bit with her because she can be quite competitive and a bit gossip-y (not sure that is a word). But, she is kind, clever, thorough, dependable, and hard working.
This mum freelances, but has wanted a permanent position for quite a while. There is a position coming up at a large firm I know very well. My company is also a client of the firm, and the open position is working for a woman I work very closely with.
My friend tells me there are 16 semi-finalists for the position, and she is one of them (over 200 applicants). I know a word and/or recommendation from me would tip the scales heavily in her favour, and could possibly secure the job for her (she is qualified for the job, btw).
The issue? I am not sure I want to 'blur' the lines between my work life and my personal life. If she secures the job, my friend will suddenly know alot more about me, my work, how I do my job, work relationships, etc. I hesitate about her having access to that information due to aforementioned pushiness and gossip tendencies (though I cannot say she is professionally indiscreet). I am also quite a private person.
I feel torn about not stepping up to support her, but also have real hesitation.
WWYD? And aibu?