Thinking Of Hooking Up With A Coworker? Check Out This Guide!

A little office romance won't hurt...once done correctly!

​Siksè Staff

From flirting over the photocopier to lunch dates and after work limes, we must admit that office romance is the foundation to many long term fulfilling relationships —as well as a forerunner to nasty breakups. Yet...many of us continue to indulge. Over the years companies have implemented rules to discourage the practice of romantic office relations, especially ones between managers and employees. It is the view of many that workplace relationships are a difficult issue and can be a huge risk for companies. They believe that they can lead to favoritism and if they go sour they can lead to litigation.

​When this topic came to mind I set out to ask around about office romances and to my surprise it seems very prevalent in our society.  One person described their office fling as  “fun and energising” and even went on to say that it increased their productivity. Another said that even though they tried to  keep their relationship private, everyone noticed. Eventually, she resigned from the company and they are now married with two children. It wasn’t such a happy ending for one guy who still finds it difficult facing his ex everyday. According to him “getting over someone is hard enough but it’s even harder when they are sitting next to you every day.”

​Restricting office romance is near impossible because as the saying goes “the heart wants what it wants.” Here is a guide (just a guide) that can help prevent the situation from turning ugly. 

1. Before you both decide to engage, find out the company’s policy. Getting to  know the rules before things get too serious can save you a lot of problems in the future.
2. Always remain professional, even at events outside of working hours. Remember people are always on the look out for the latest gossip.
3. Do not engage in extra marital affairs. Things can get even more complicated when spouses are involved.
4. Do not bring relationship troubles into the workplace. This is your personal life, keep it that way.
5. Be realistic, not all relationships have happy endings. Always be prepared for a breakup. Ask yourself how you plan to deal with the person at work everyday after a breakup. Can you handle seeing this person everyday? Would you ask for a transfer to another department? Do you even want to deal with any of these issues?
6. Be honest with yourself. A few dates can be kept a secret but if you decide to get serious, keeping it a secret will be impossible. Be open about it as this will help silence the rumour mill.

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