How to Have a Successful Office Romance

The office romance taboo isn't as bad as it once was. Employers realize that inner-office hook-ups are inevitable, given the long hours American workers put in. Therefore many companies have eased back on forbidding fraternizing. It's a good thing, too. Since employees are putting in more hours, many find it difficult to summon the energy to go on the prowl for romance. That typically only leaves two primary meat markets: gyms and places of employment.

Some, however, are still wary about dating co-workers for the same reasons some companies still frown on the practice: it can create a sexually-charged atmosphere, create discomfort among other co-workers, and break-ups are nasty enough without having them play out during billable hours.

But what if there are sparks between you and that stud in accounting or that babe in marketing? How do you start the romance so it causes as little work disruption as possible? It can be done and done well if you follow a few simple steps:

1) Start in a group setting. If the object of your desire is part of a group of co-workers you go with to happy hour, it's easy to avoid suspicion if the two of you talk. Exchange phone numbers while everyone's talking. In essence, you'll be using your co-workers' conversations as cover while you make your move.

2) Start quiet. Even if the two of you knock boots after the initial group get-together, keep that info to yourselves it's too soon to come out. It might be difficult not to confide in any work friends, but it's essential to the chemistry of your office. It's also a good idea to avoid prolonged stares or using the office broom closet for romantic interludes.

3) Revel in hotness. Nothing is hotter than a secret romance. Enjoy your covert coupling. You'll feel saucy. You'll feel sexy. You'll feel naughty. You'll find it hard to resist each other. These are good things.

4) Love or just sex. Are you falling for each other or just falling into bed together? If you're just providing physical benefits but have no emotional commitment, that's fine - just make sure you keep your part time passion under wraps. Otherwise, one or both of you might develop a reputation for being promiscuous. If you're developing real feelings for each other, then pay particular attention to the items below.

5) Practice avoidance. When you go on dates, it's wise to avoid your co-workers' usual haunts. Go the next town over if you need to. If you're seen together outside normal work hours, rumors will fly. This could potentially ruin office chemistry. Avoid this awkwardness by avoiding public displays of affection within your home ZIP Codes.

6) Come out slowly. Even if the action between the sheets is fast and furious, only mention your romance to a trusted co-worker or two. Later, you might feel comfortable enough to gradually be seen together during non-work hours. If you decide to announce it to the world before your relationship is on solid ground, you risk looking foolish. And, again, you might run the risk of ruining team chemistry

7) Be prepared for fall out. It's hard to keep an office romance under wraps forever. When yours becomes public knowledge, be aware there might be some side effects. You might be the subject of office rumors. Management might force the two of you to decide between love or employment. Jealousies might develop.

8) Have an exit plan. While it may cool your libido faster than a cold shower, it's a good idea to talk with your new date mate about how you will conduct yourselves at work should your coupling fizzle. It doesn't need to be in writing, but it's wise to agree not to spill it into work time.

By following these few simple steps, you can have the best of both worlds: enjoyment and employment. Just remember to keep it under wraps until you're sure you know what you've got, but in the meantime, enjoy being naughty and hot.