Almost two in every ten people meet their partner at work according to a couple of recent surveys on the topic. So, if you want to date a colleague, here’s what you need to know.
Most important
Do you report to the other person or is their a significant work relationship that could be compromised by a romantic relationship? Or is there a perception that it could be? If so, dating is probably not a good idea. The media is littered with examples of where this has gone horribly wrong. At the very least, make sure you declare the relationship and possible conflict to both your immediate bosses and HR.
Are there work policies on dating a colleague?
Read them! See what you can and can’t do.
Do not think that they don’t apply to you, or that you can get around them. They do, and you can’t!
Do your job
If it starts to affect the way that you are working, you might find yourself in an awkward conversation with HR. Once again, no one is really interested in whether your romance is going well (or not) but they will certainly be interested if you’re not doing what you are employed to do.. So, do your job properly and professionally.
Keep it outside work
No one really wants to see either end of the spectrum of office romance .. That is, the loved up version or the sighing deeply and slamming door version. Keep your social life and your romantic life outside work. This includes when you are out of work but still at work functions.
Discretion is the better part of valour..
And finally
If it ends with a fiery crash, don’t spend hours bitching about your ex partner to whoever will listen. Be professional and discrete. You wouldn’t want the other person to be telling all, so keep your powder dry too!!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Be careful.
- Be professional.
- Be appropriate.
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See you next week,
