Are Interoffice Relationships or Workplace Dating a Good Idea
Are Interoffice Relationships or Workplace Dating a Good Idea
The situation will undoubtedly present itself where co-workers will be attracted to each other. This can lead to a place where you will find out in a hurry "Are Interoffice Relationships or Workplace Dating a Good Idea". If you are considering workplace dating make sure you know the rules. A relationship with a co-worker will be complicated.
Almost all companies have policies that are directly concerned with dating among associates. You will find the answer to if your company has specific rules in your company handbook. If the book does not seem to cover the subject one choice is ask a supervisor about your concern. Keep in mind that the person you ask will wonder why you want to know. They will presume that you are involved with another employee and if this is not allowed you will put yourself in a spot. You will bring attention to yourself before you even do anything. So, if you can get the information some other way.
Most of us will never be able to control who we are attracted too or who is attracted to us. If you find yourself in a spot and decisions have to be made about how far you can let a work relationship progress remember that there could be serious consequences. These can range from trouble with other employees that don't like the idea of your relationship, to you being overlooked for promotion or even fired. The cost of a workplace romance can be very high.
I would suggest that you have a conversation, away from the workplace, with the person you are attracted too. You will need to make a plan concerning what to do as people are told about you. How will you handle situations that arise as you tell people? You will have to consider the possibility that one or both of you could lose your job. This is a real possibility, especially if there is a policy against relationships among the employees. Is it all worth it? You had better think about it! Worst case scenario one of you has to give up your job. Best case scenario might be that one of you would be allowed to change departments. You will have to consider all these possibilities and more.
You might be asking," is honesty the best policy?" The answer to that question is yes! If you're serious about the relationship it is definitely a bad idea to try to conceal it. People in positions of authority do not appreciate being deceived. You will most likely be received with a more understanding manner if you are up front and honest.
Keep in mind that companies have reasons for these rules. The most common concern would be that your romance will become a performance issue. Because of this, no matter how management reacts, you will have to be very careful not to let your emotions affect your work or anyone else's performance. Keep your private life out of the office at all costs.