by Linda Joyce

Created on: February 16, 2009   Last Updated: March 25, 2009

If you've ever been involved in an office romance, you know in the beginning, it's all furtive glances across the conference room, quick kisses in a hidden stairwell, and coy emails sent several times a day.

That's the beginning or the "honeymoon period" when everything smells like roses. But what happens if and when things start to go bad?

Assuming that your company gives the okay to co-workers who want to date (some don't), this is something that anyone involved in an office romance must consider because chances are such a romance may not survive your tenure with the company.

But let's face it, there is nothing like love in bloom. The swelling of your heart with love each time you meet the object of your affection can make you feel as though you're walking on air and actually help you get through the day a lot easier.

Normal worries and annoyances seem less important when you're in love. Then, there's also the fact that it's rather fun to flaunt your good fortune in your co-workers' faces and perhaps even enjoy their envy.

A real problem can develop, however, if there is a breakup or other unpleasantness in the relationship. This is a time when some office couples think nothing of airing their dirty laundry in front of coworkers, even hoping they'll get them to pick sides. This can get rather sticky, and I'd suggest you not take this route if you're having relationship problems. And certainly don't get involved if you're an innocent bystander.

On the other hand, if things do work out and you should marry, there are different considerations. Does your company approve of married couples working together? Are you allowed to work in the same department? Some firms have no problem with this; others say one has to quit. This should be a question to put to Human Resources if you find the relationship moving along toward marriage.

Another problem, which can rear its ugly head, is the possibility that two married co-workers find each other irresistible. Not only can this destroy both marriages but can wreak utter havoc in the office. Emotional highs and lows can create problems that affect the star-crossed lovers and their work, which ultimately can affect those around them and the company, too. I know this is the kind of thing that no one wants to experience, but these things do happen.

As tempting as an office romance may be, it certainly seems best to avoid it and all of its complications before it even begins. However, if you can't resist each other, try to keep it under wraps if at all possible.

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