by Sora Millay

Created on: July 21, 2011

Yes, office romances are up there on the top 10 list of things not to do at the workplace, but let's face it. We're human. Attraction happens and we are drawn to people whom we have chemistry with. I know a great number of people who fell in love at the workplace and got married, and this includes my own parents.

That being said, there are many reasons why people warn against office romances. It can get in the way of your career or create tension in the work environment. We'll talk about a few of these dangers. But the solution is not always to end the relationship. If the feelings are mutual and strong, sit down with the other person and discuss possible options for a workaround. Love isn't an easy thing to find, so if it's real, I say "Make It Work!"

Dangers Of A Office Romance

1. Being Distracted.

Falling for someone at work is a heady and exciting experience, especially if you work in a confined environment and are constantly around each other. And you don't even have to speak to each other to feel it. The awareness of this person's proximity can make even having a sandwich in the pantry thrilling. But while harmless flirtation can add spice to life, serious infatuation can make you a less effective worker simply because you are not able to concentrate when this person is around. 

What To Do:

Discipline and self-talk is key here. If you find yourself distracted by your co-worker's presence, find ways to de-romanticise the situation and avoid personal interaction. If you have a friend at work who knows about your feelings, get him or her to remind you to stay focused.

2. Dating Your Boss or Subordinate

Dating your supervisor or someone who reports to you can be a prickly issue because it will probably lead to accusations of favoritism. This is a charge that will be difficult to deny even if it is unfair, because people can say that you're "unconsciously" doing it, and it may stall both of your careers.

What To Do:

There is no win-win situation here. One party will need to make a change, either to a different job scope reporting to another supervisor, or to a different job. If that is not possible, both parties will need to be extra careful and the subordinate will need to work harder to justify a promotion.

3. When It Ends Badly

Whether you confessed your attraction and was rejected, had a fling that you regretted, or had a serious relationship that didn't work out, the end result is the same: awkwardness and tension at work. And if you harbour anger

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