Basic Rules When Dating a Co-Worker

When you are dating a co-worker, there are numerous things to consider and many complications to expect. But this doesn’t mean that is impossible to have a romantic relationship with a co-worker. You just need to go about things a bit differently than you would normally do. While there are no hard and fast rules about dating co-workers, there are some unwritten rules that you should take heed of in order to be able to properly balance your work life and your romantic life.

Review Your Company’s Dating Policies

Before getting involved with one of your co-workers, you need to find out first what the company policy is about dating co-workers. It is a good idea to have a talk with someone from HR to make sure that you aren’t going to be breaking any company rules or get into any trouble by dating your co-worker. Don’t wait until you have been kicked out because dating a co-worker is against company policy.

Don’t Date Your Boss

The most important rule about dating in the workplace is do not date your boss. If the relationship doesn’t work out, there could be a lot of tension. You are also most likely to get more hate from co-workers, and if you receive any perks, bonuses, promotions, etc., they may think that you are just getting special favors or preferential treatment because of your relationship status.

Remain Professional

Always remain professional while you are at work, so you need to separate your relationship from your work. You can’t be spending your time sending love notes via email to each other, staring at each other from across the room or conference table, or even talking about your relationship. While at work, you both need to maintain a professional appearance, and only talk about work-related subjects.

Keep Work and Your Private Life Separate

It can be uncomfortable for everyone if you show public displays of affection, in the office and/or spend every waking moment together. Not only is this very unprofessional, but it is also going to make a lot of people feel very awkward. Enjoy the romantic aspect of your relationship on your own time. No holding hands, kissing, hugging, flashing rings or other expensive jewelry.

Set Serious Ground Rules

It is important to create some rules with your partner. Focus on how you’ll act when it comes to workplace drama, how you’ll deal with potential jealousy, and how you’ll deal with any other difficulties you might face. The trick is to get ahead of the complications rather than waiting and taking them on a case-by-case basis.