Recent surveys have shown that most of the relationships blossom in the workplace. It’s not at all surprising, because in the present age, the time spent at work is almost the same or more,
compared to the time spent with families and friends. So, there's an increasing opportunity to mingle with office colleagues and find romance in the convenience of the workplace.
Clearly, workplace romance is now less taboo than it used to be. Most couples keep their relationships at work on the down-low, out of fear of an executive crackdown. Actually, the common wisdom says an absolute no-no to mixing business with pleasure. But when people spend most of their waking hours at work, is it reasonable to prohibit dating at work?
When a person shares experiences and common qualities with a co-worker, it's no longer a surprise if they end up socializing at the end of the day. But one must always be cautious while dating a coworker. A workplace romance may bring an uneasiness and embarrassment in the workplace, probably the very reason of why this kind of romance rarely ever last.
How a person handles an office breakup often indicates one's level of maturity and professionalism in handling the relationship itself. Here are some dos and don’ts to make workplace romance work for you and get you through situations with grace and dignity.
Keeping your relationship out of the office is essential. It means you must be able to set the limits and boundaries about what is proper inside the office walls. If both of you have managed to steer clear of public displays of affection on the whole course of the relationship, the same rule must be applied to the breakup. Using a cafeteria for a long discussion and sending nasty notes back and forth using the company email system is definitely unprofessional.
Never let the office romance get in the way of work and productivity as much as possible. Drown yourself in the job, and not in your misery. Always remind yourself of the very reason why you go to work is the first place.
Even if it comes to ending of an office romance, you must take on a very professional attitude, means saying nothing negative or bad about your ex to other colleagues. Whenever you feel the urge to do so, bite your tongue and save some juicy details for your friends outside the office.
Being able to deal with a devastating personal situation and work at the same time will show others that you are, no doubt, committed to your career and to the company's success. Though difficult, reverting from being lovers to colleagues can be a full time job itself.
For sure, you will have to see each other every day and it will be painful, but try your best to put your personal feelings outside the four walls of the workplace and handle yourself with professionalism and dignity. The next time when you'll feel a little attraction for a colleague, think for a twice and do yourself a favor - look outside the office for your next relationship!
