7. Who is Dating Whom?
Most companies have a policy about work relationship – that is, they are often frowned upon. Realistically, relationships can end badly and this can spill over into the workplace. More generally speaking, this restriction is there for the benefit of the company and does not take into account the reality of life. Office conversations often do involve the private lives of colleagues, but they are best avoided if you can.
People are social creatures and spend long hours in their workplace. In fact, some people may speak about their work ‘wife’ or ‘husband.’ Office romances, flirtations, dating, and even affairs, are pretty common in many companies. It can be tempting to want to hear the latest gossip! Is Fiona, from management, seeing Alan, in sales? What about Sally, the new temp, in marketing? You fancy her a lot and she seems to like you, right back. Should you ask her out?
Crossing the line, between your business and your personal life is a very risky move. Think carefully before embarking on any relationships with your colleagues. Your private life will be open for public discussion and scrutiny. People will question your relationship and ability to be neutral when it comes to your partner, or someone you are dating, and any work-related matters. Especially, if you occupy a senior management role, people will be suspect you may favor that person.
In the same way, gossiping about colleagues and their personal lives may come back to haunt you. Conversations and comments about people’s personal lives are just that – personal. It’s better to keep your private opinion to yourself. Yes, you may be outraged that you have been skipped over for promotion and suspect that your colleague is sleeping with the boss, but, unless you are ready to head down to your HR department and make a formal complaint, you are advised to keep quiet. Make your complaint official or share your views to your friends and family.