Starting a Relationship with a Coworker

Starting a relationship with a coworker brings an interesting twist and a new dynamic to your life at work. You've had your eye on a coworker for sometime now, and things have progressed to the point where it's time to declare being a couple. Yes, it's exciting to think about the potential prospects of your new love, but you may want to consider the following tips to ensure work doesn't become off-kilter when starting a relationship with a coworker.

Try to agree at the outset that should your relationship eventually end, the breakup will not interfere with work. This is easier said than done, but when it's over, both of you can reflect on your discussion and try to follow through on it.

Some companies look unfavorably upon work romances. Know your company culture. If your employer has a policy about dating in the workplace, find out what it is. It will only be a short time before everyone becomes aware of your romance, so do your research beforehand.

While at work, keep conversations with your new boyfriend or girlfriend at a minimum. It's too easy, too often to walk over to your coworker's desk or office and start up a conversation. Sure, once in a while is fine, but don't make it a habit. Perception-wise, your higher-ups may think it could become a distraction. They will notice, and this could hurt your career.

Along with internal conversations, be careful about emails and the internet when starting a relationship with a coworker. These forms of electronic communication can be monitored for content and usage. This is why you have text messaging.

It's lunchtime. Be mindful about breaking bread with your new love in the cafeteria on a repetitive basis, especially if you've had lunch with other coworkers in the past. They may become skittish of your new relationship and may feel like they are intruding at the lunch table. Try to keep things business as usual.

Speaking of business as usual, consider making a conscious effort to keep your personal relationship separate from work. Refrain from giving any personal information about your relationship to other coworkers, especially when commiserating around the water cooler. Keep in mind, your personal life remains outside of work, and that's a good thing.