Five Standard Rules of the Office Romance

Most companies frown upon fraternization at work. Some companies even impose rules (or disciplinary action) for those who get a little bit too cozy at the workplace. But we all know that keeping one's emotions (or hormones) in check, while squeezed into a snug cubicle for two isn't always easy. Whether or not your place of business discourages romantic relations amongst employees is perhaps a moot point. If it's going to happen, there are few things that you might want to know.

Keep your trap shut.

You will most certainly be tempted to blab to your best office bud. Don't tell her. As a matter of fact, don't tell anyone-especially anyone that you work with. The best way to become the subject of office fodder is to break this rule.

Plan an "escape route"...just in case.

Not a real escape route, of course. (Too drastic.) But in case your little dalliance goes sour, you might want to consider transferring to another area of the company where you might find refuge. This particular tactic works best if you are already planning a lateral move, or vying for a promotion (unless your boss also happens to be your paramour.) Even if no one knows that a romance has taken place, things may be uncomfortable if you are forced to see your former beloved day in and day out. These measures may seem radical; but escape routes don't have to be as serious as you think. Obtaining a getaway plan can be as simple as altering your daily routine.

Censor thyself.

You may be able to curtail your personal conversations-or even the tendency to indulge in a little office gossip. But it might be difficult to squelch those smoldering glances. You may think you're playing coy and covering your tracks. But your coworkers' sense of observation might be a lot keener than you would imagine.

Stay paper-trail free.

Do NOT use interoffice modes of communication to pass along your sweet nothings. This may come back to haunt you later. Sexual harassment may not seem like something you and your cubicle sweetie will ever have to deal with. But there are several exes who have learned the hard way how risky playing footsie on the job really can be.

Be prepared for the worst...

Sure, there is a lot you can do to protect yourself against embarrassing moments born of an office romance. But there is little that you can do to control someone else's actions. Should you and your elevator hookup buddy decide to call it quits, you might still find yourself the subject of scandal-through no fault of your own. Many office romances (whether they end badly or not) fly under the radar. Some office romances even blossom into marriages. But since you can never predict what a spurned loved one will do, be mindful of mutual acquaintances. Burned bridges have a way of coming back to haunt you.

SOURCES:

Www.iVillage.com
www.psychologytoday.com
www.thefrisky.com
www.yourtango.com