If you’re interested in looking for love at workplace, you would like to know how an office romance can affect your career. And at times, even if you never thought of having crush on a co-worker, you eventually might consider the time you spend together at work. Here are some tips that will help you prevent rocking your boat in the love of sea.
Know company policy
Before you barge into a office romance, you should be aware of your companies policies regarding office relationships. Why is it important? Well, you may not be aware of this but some companies have rules against office relationships. So at places like these, you need to ask yourself if it’s worth taking the risk. And if you still feel like taking a step further, you should prepare yourself for any consequences which may fall upon you when your company finds out about relationship. But if you are the lucky one whose company does not have any rules against it, you should still evaluate if your company’s corporate climate can accept it and does not look down upon such relationships.
Weight the Career Risks
well if you think you like someone from your office, weigh the benefits against the career risks. If you feel finding a life partner is more important than your current job then you don’t have to worry about anything. After all you are getting what you wanted but if you are someone who has been very ambitious about his/her career you may not want to risk it.
Maintain decorum and professionalism
You should keep social and business lives separate. Make sure you don’t let a romantic relationship affect the quality and efficiency of your work. If you feel that your office romance is affecting your work, beware that you may be asked to end your romance or maybe find another job.
Stay in your hierarchy
Avoid dating someone in a higher or lower position. Why? Well, you should keep in mind your office politics and hierarchy. Linking up with someone at a different seniority level could dramatically affect your salary or movement within the company. It is better avoid unwanted scrutiny and drama by avoiding dating those with whom you regularly work.
No PDA at work
public displays of affection at work is complete no no, instead maintain proper distance from your love interest. Save the romance for out of the office. Keep in mind that in today’s world of blogging, YouTube, and Google, and even instant messaging, the line between public and private is increasingly blurred. Becoming a target of office gossip in the blogosphere or elsewhere could damage your career advancement and job security.
Plan for the worst
Make an understanding and agree in the beginning of the relationship how you will handle a potential break-up. A messy break-up might affect you, your partner, and perhaps the entire office. It could prompt the company to change its dating policy.
Consider leaving
If your relationship gets serious, one of you should consider a new position outside the company.
