Things You Need to Know

Business Etiquette

Love @ Work

February 12, 2007

Last week’s breaking news about an astronaut charged with the attempted kidnapping of a romantic rival, combined with the fact that we celebrate Valentine’s Day this week, suggests it might be appropriate to discuss how best to handle romantic relationships with co-workers. It turns out lots of folks fall in love at work. In fact, a 2001 Vault.com survey found that nearly 50% of employees have been romantically tied to someone at work, and many more would like to hook up with someone who strolls the same hallways.

Before you enter into an office relationship, keep in mind the following:

Entering into a relationship with a subordinate is a complete No-No. Too often such relationships lead to sexual harassment claims. Also, avoid entering into relationships with your direct boss. Rightly or wrongly, others will quickly assume that any future recognition (raises, promotions) you receive from that boss will be the result of your relationship rather than the quality of your work.
If your new found love is neither a subordinate nor a boss, before you enter the relationship, confirm whether or not your employer has a policy regarding employees dating. If dating is not permitted, keep the relationship on ice.
If your company allows employees to date, ask your new love out. However, keep the relationship extremely discrete. No Matter how deeply you are in love, while you’re in the office, you both must act like consummate professionals. Avoid spending inordinate amounts of time e-mailing or phoning your heart’s desire. And absolutely avoid physical displays of affection in the office. The moment you hear a co-worker say, “Get a room,” you know you’ve crossed the line.
Prepare early for a possible break-up. Establish ground rules with your new love regarding how you will maintain a professional working relationship even if the personal relationship heads south.