Relationships are to be treasured especially in the workplace. Workplace relationships may lead to romantic ones, and the romances can lead to long-term relationships and even marriage. Most of them hardly get there, they end up in uncomfortable situations for the people involved in the relationship, as well as their co-workers.
In the worst case scenario, office romance could result in lose of employment as many will be forces to resign or get fired.
It is considered wisdom to tame your will as office romances do happen, there is a crush here and there. If your new relationship involves a co-worker, make sure your office romance does not interfere with your career — or your significant other’s. how do yo ensure this? Here are some nuggets to munch on.
- What are the company policies about relationships with colleagues
Before any consideration is made or any roaming-eye behavior is embarked, first get a clear understanding on the company policies about dating co-workers. Many companies large and small have hard and fast rules against relationships developing between co-workers. If it is against the rules, you have to ask yourself: “Is it worth it?” And, if relationships are allowed, be discreet and prepare for any consequences.
- Be very certain
It the real deal or is it just a fling? Are you bonding over an intense project requiring late night at work or shared frustration at a boss, or do you have a connection that extends beyond the office? Make sure you know the answer to that question before beginning a romantic relationship.
- Wear the garment of dignity and professionalism
Don’t let a romantic relationship affect the quality and efficiency of your work. You don’t have to keep your relationship a secret, but you don’t want to have it so on display that it makes your colleagues uncomfortable. You know the worse consequences.
Beyond avoiding public displays of affection at the office, also be aware that co-workers may be on the lookout for bias. Avoid sitting next to each other in meetings, having lunch together daily, or acting in general as a unit. And, do not send personal emails using your work account.
- Don’t date someone in a higher or lower position
Office politics and hierarchy should be top-of-mind, particularly when it comes to office romances. Choosing an entanglement with a co-worker — especially one at a different seniority level — could dramatically affect your salary or movement within your company. Your best bet is to avoid dating people with whom you regularly work.
- Let the romance be out of the office
Even why the love seems to be a your boiling point, there should be no public displays of affection at work. Stick to the same professional behavior with your significant other at the workplace that you would have with any other co-worker. That means no holding hands, no kissing, no affectionate nicknames, and definitely no supply closet liaisons.
- Settle all disagreements after work hours and out of the office.
- Plan for the worst
Agree at the beginning of the relationship how you will handle a potential break up. Avoid, a messy breakup. It isn’t just you and your partner that are involved, it’s your entire office and the future of the company’s dating policy.
- Consider leaving the company
If the relationship does get serious, one member should consider a new position outside the company.