Relationships In The Workplace: What You Need To Know

by Katie Lewis on February 23, 2012

Let’s face it – most of your adult life will be spent in the workplace, so it’s no surprise that you may meet your future boyfriend, girlfriend, or even spouse in the office. In fact, a recent survey by Career Builder revealed that 30 percent those who had a relationship with a coworker ended up getting married to their coworker.

Carrying out a relationship at work has been considered a faux pas by most HR departments, as it could be potentially destructive for both the company and your own career. Possible effects of this range from workplace favoritism and gossip to lowered productivity and potential sexual harassment suits.

However, Gen Y professionals don’t seem to mind the potential repercussions of romance compared to other older workers, according to January 2012 survey by Workplace Options and Public Policy Polling (see full report here).  Consider below the findings:

  • 84 percent of Gen Y workers said they would enter into a romantic relationship with a coworker (36 percent of Gen X workers, 29 percent of Baby Boomers)
  • 71 percent of employed Gen Y professionals see workplace romances as helping to improve overall performance and morale
  • Gen Y is more open to dating their supervisors than all other age groups combined (40 percent)

Chances are you might encounter this predicament (or are currently in one) where carrying out a relationship with a coworker is an option. Though you may be confident in your decision to go with your heart, first go with your head. Alison Doyle lists tips on how to handle office relationships. Check out the top three measures to follow:

Check With The Company First. No company is alike when it comes to office relationships – so check to see what the explicit policies are for this situation and be prepared for any consequences that may follow.

Remain Professional. While at work, it’s in the interest of both parties to remain discreet and professional. It may cost you your job if you let the relationship negatively impact your work.

Avoid Dating Your Supervisor. Though 40 percent of young workers don’t have a problem with it, it remains to be a very risky and consequential move. It could affect your salary, promotions, evaluations, and alienate you from your other coworkers.

Are relationships in the workplace a good or bad thing? How can you successfully manage a relationship with a coworker at work?

You might also enjoy:

  1. Workplace Pet Peeves & How To Cope With Them [INFOGRAPHIC]
  2. Why Make Friends In The Workplace
  3. 4 Ways To Build Credibility In The Workplace
  4. 3 Common Workplace Mistakes and How to Fix Them
  5. Things to Remember When Socializing Outside of the Workplace

Tagged as: career advice, communication, gen y, generation y, generation y in the workplace, millennials, relationships, survey, tips, workplace

Article by Katie Lewis

Katie Lewis is currently a senior at Florida State University and will graduate in May 2012 with a B.A. in Editing, Writing, and Media. Minoring in Communications and attending her first meeting of the Florida Public Relations Association Student Chapter inspired her to pursue a career in public relations.

  • http://www.ediblecreations.blogspot.com/ Donna @ EdibleCreations

    At least, people are talking about it nowadays. Some time ago, dating a coworker was a complete  taboo. I think it’s a big awkward if the relationship is not a stable one, but if the job doesn’t suffer – go for it.

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