6 Tips To Keep In Mind While Dating A Co-Worker

Romancing a desirable colleague is a common fantasy for many individuals, particularly if they have developed feelings for someone in the workplace over a significant period of time.

When you come across a person who embodies your ideal partner while dressed in an alluring professional attire, it becomes even more difficult to resist. The situation becomes even more enticing if you discover that you share common interests.

Engaging in office romances is a frequently occurring phenomenon, and the underlying reason is rather straightforward. Spending a substantial portion of your time, approximately eight hours a day, five days a week, in the office provides ample opportunities to encounter a diverse range of individuals. [Read: Techniques to enhance your appeal and capture the attention of your desired date]

Out of the multitude of people you interact with on a daily basis, it is likely that you will eventually find someone with whom you genuinely connect.

Amidst the busy and active environment of your daily office routine, you may unexpectedly find yourself stealing glances at your crush, and you may notice that they reciprocate your gaze.

From innocent flirtations in the copy room to passionate affairs within the confines of the office, and even the subsequent awkwardness following a breakup, allow us to serve as your guide through the intricacies of dating a coworker!

# Check your company’s policy on dating a coworker

Is jeopardizing your job worth pursuing a romantic relationship with a coworker? Numerous companies discourage office affairs for valid reasons, as they can negatively impact your performance.

Your initial step should be to determine if there is an explicit policy prohibiting any form of workplace romance, unless you intend to be dismissed.

If the policy does not clearly state that engaging in a romantic relationship at work can lead to termination, then feel free to pursue your romantic interest to your heart's desire!

# Choosing who to date

Undoubtedly, securing a job is primarily focused on professional pursuits rather than seeking romance. However, it can be advantageous to keep an open mind and be observant of individuals who catch your interest. It is crucial to establish clear boundaries and refrain from pursuing relationships with superiors or subordinates, as such behavior is highly unprofessional.

Another factor to consider is seeking a potential partner outside of your own department or immediate vicinity. While it may be convenient to develop an attraction with someone you frequently interact with, it is equally easy to grow tired of each other over time.

Instead, explore opportunities to connect with individuals on a different floor or within another department. Furthermore, in the event that things do not go as planned, it can be challenging to avoid awkward moments when you have to share a workspace, such as a cubicle, with your former romantic interest.

# Be sure they’re also interested in you before making a move

Merely because Ted from the finance department or Anne from HR has shown kindness or made an effort to assist you does not automatically imply that they are romantically interested in you. In both professional and personal relationships, it is essential to refrain from assuming someone's feelings until you observe clear and evident signs.

While outside the office, such situations may not be of great consequence as individuals can simply choose to avoid each other, within the workplace, they can lead to awkwardness at best and potentially result in a sexual harassment allegation at worst. It is crucial to navigate professional boundaries carefully to maintain a respectful and appropriate work environment.

# Get to know each other a little better during a company outing

The anticipation of encountering your office crush outside of work adds an extra level of excitement to the flirtatious dynamic.

In a more relaxed setting, devoid of the pressures associated with our professional roles, we can finally enjoy spending time together without the need for formal date invitations.

If your office social gathering involves alcohol, it can serve as a confidence booster. However, it's important to consume alcohol in moderation, as excessive drinking may lead to becoming heavily intoxicated before even having the chance to express your feelings.

# Discuss how you should handle it if your relationship doesn’t work out

Despite being an uncomfortable topic that many prefer to avoid, the possibility of a relationship coming to an end is always present. After all, entering into a relationship is not driven by the expectation of failure, but rather the hope that it will last indefinitely.

Nonetheless, it is crucial to have open discussions about how you would navigate the situation and handle potential challenges if the relationship were to end. It is important to devise a plan regarding your behavior at work and how you would communicate the situation to your colleagues and superiors.

# Hide it well in the early stages, but come clean if you get caught

Even if your company's rules do not explicitly prohibit office romances, it is not necessary for your relationship to become the center of attention and gossip within the workplace. If your involvement with a coworker is merely a passing fling, you may not feel obligated to inform your boss.

However, if circumstances arise where your relationship becomes apparent to others before you have a chance to disclose it, denying the situation would be futile. Your colleagues may find themselves in a difficult position and may be compelled to report what they know.

In such cases, it is advisable to be upfront and honest with your boss. This approach not only relieves the burden of hiding evidence of your relationship but also allows for open communication.