Workplace Romance..Yes or No?

2 comments April 11th, 2008

Dating in the workplace can be a controversial topic.  Should you, shouldn’t you?  Some things to take into consideration are:   

1) How closely do I work with this person?  If things don’t work out between us, will I have to continue to work side by side this person?  This can create an uncomfortable situation for both individuals.  If a break-up could lead to such an uncomfortable environment where one would consider changing jobs, it probably isn’t worth the risk.   

2) Is one of the individuals in a direct management role?  If so, other co-workers may view this as showing favoritism.  If the relationship didn’t work out in this situation, it would certainly create an uncomfortable work environment for both parties.  Both instances could create an unhealthy work environment for not only the two involved in a relationship, but for everybody involved.  

 3) Is the relationship distracting both individuals from doing their job?  Are there too many emails going back and forth?  Is there too much discussion about life away from work while at work?  Both need to be able to stay focused on the job they are being paid to do and leave their personal lives at the door.   

I believe that dating in the workplace can be a risk.  It is an individual’s choice to weigh all the pros and cons and make a decision about how to move forward from that point.  While there are certainly situations where it may not be in your best interest to date a co-worker, if the situation is right, feel free to give it a shot.  

Share with us your feelings about dating at the workplace!