Are workplace romances ok?
Through all the hours of our lives we spend at work, it’s natural that we build bonds with our colleagues. But what if a workplace friendship turns into something more?
A romantic relationship with a co-worker can be tricky territory to navigate.
Before you reveal your feelings, there are a few things to think about first, according to experts.
Potential downsides of workplace romances
For Australian HR Institute Chief Executive Officer, Sarah McCann-Bartlett, when colleagues become a couple, it can lead to issues ranging from workplace gossip and speculation to outright conflicts of interest and the potential for sexual harassment.
“There can also be disadvantages for the less senior employee, problems with team dynamics and discord if the relationship fails,” McCann-Bartlett says.
“Workplace relationships could have a negative effect on the rest of the team, especially if there is favouritism shown or displays of intimacy in the workplace.
“There might also be a perception that the couple always supports each other in workplace discussions or decisions.”
McCann-Bartlett says it may not be a requirement, but it’s helpful to be upfront with your workplace about a personal relationship – especially if one person reports to the other or if either person is in a senior role.
Starting off on the right foot
When it comes to workplace relationships, it’s better to be on the front foot. Career strategist and P2P Learning and Development Academy Director Ineke McMahon recommends checking workplace policies before beginning a romance with a co-worker.
“Most Australian workplaces don’t prohibit relationships, or have a disclosure policy – but some do,” McMahon says.
“A key case in recent history was a former CEO of a large Australian publicly listed company, who received a significant cut to his remuneration for not disclosing a romantic relationship with his executive assistant.”
Potential upsides of workplace romances
McMahon says not all workplace relationships end badly, though. And they can be successful when handled in the right way. For instance, one potential upside to dating a co-worker is that each person understands what the other is going through at work.
“If you have had a tough day and want to debrief, it’s great to talk to someone who understands the personalities and the dynamics of the workplace without having to explain each person, their role and the issue,” she says.
McMahon says sharing the same workplace with a partner could also mean a more fun commute, or extra networking opportunities.
“Having a partner in a different area or team probably means that you will build stronger relationships across the organisation,” she says.
4 tips to approaching a workplace romance
So, are you thinking about pursuing a workplace romance? Here are SEEK Resident Psychologist Sabina Read’s four tips to avoid letting a workplace relationship derail your career.
- Approach the relationship with transparency and sensitivity, yet without shame or secrecy.
- Consider the needs of co-workers who may feel uncomfortable, embarrassed or resentful if they work with both parties and are not informed about the relationship.
- Celebrate and nurture your union with gratitude, respect and professionalism – whether you are happily dating or breaking up. Happy and connected co-workers can be an asset to any organisation, while fragile and agitated exes can create a toxic ripple effect in the wake of a messy break-up!
- Understand your company’s HR policies around workplace relationships to avoid serious breaches of company and HR policies. Potential complications of workplace romances will likely occur when a power imbalance exists between the two parties involved.
Originally published on news.com.au, republished with permission.
