Office Romance: A Risky Business

Office romance is fairly common these days as the workplace is where we spend a third or more of our lives. Engaging in such affairs can only have two possible outcomes. Handled well, it can lead to an exclusive relationship or even marriage. Handled badly and it could result in a sexual harassment suit.

It's not surprising office romance has become a trend in the workplace. Opportunities to meet new people and potential dating partners serve as a catalyst for the inevitable. Employers implement specific policies to discourage the activities but often fall short from preventing them. If there is an attraction between two co-workers, little can be done to deter a developing relationship. If not careful, the affair often becomes the topic of discussion amongst other employees.

Social life is usually the sacrificial lamb to long hours in the workplace. Establishing friendships at the office often compensate for what is missing. Whether single or divorced, temptation is hard to resist when interacting with an attractive member of the opposite sex. Sharing common interests and career goals in the same setting often opens the door of possibilities. Yet romantic involvement between employees is loaded with dangers for both the employees and employer.

In some cases, relationships of this nature pose a threat to daily operations of the business. An affair between co-workers can have negative emotional effects ranging from jealousy and envy to anger and despair. Often, arguments from a previous disagreement are brought into the office. These types of distractions are what employers fear most.

According to Lever, almost half of working Americans under age 45 have dated someone they worked with. A recent Matchmaker.com State of the Date survey indicated that 73% of men and 60% of women would engage in an office romance if given the chance.

Before deciding to get involved with someone in the office, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Face reality - Consider the person for a moment. Can the person be trusted? Does he/she have a reputation for dating other co-workers? These types of questions can be clouded with infatuation. It can lead to getting involved with a married person which is something to avoid at all cost.

Use discretion - After an affair has already begun, it is recommended to keep the relationship under wraps. Letting too many people know about it can cause speculation and rumors.

Remain professional - Nothing is worse than compromising a career over an office fling. If the affair is just casual, continue to work as normal and leave the relationship at the door.

Stay away from personal email - Sending personal emails in any fashion is the fastest way to losing a job. Every email sent is automatically stored in the company's IT database.

Keep smiling - In the worst case scenario, an office romance can lead to a bad break up. If the need to see each other at work every day is unavoidable, it is best to be polite and focus on the job. Sometimes this may be difficult when strong feelings are involved. Just remember to stay drama-free.