How to Set Up Relationship Rules for a Workplace Romance

Even if your company allows a workplace romance, that doesn't mean you can do anything you want at work. Setting up ground rules for your workplace relationship can make everyone you work with, including your lover, comfortable with the situation.

Instructions

1. Consult with another office couple. If you aren't sure why a rule isn't working, they will be able to give you tips on how to make things go smoothly. If you can, go out on double dates to share tips and revel in your office romances.

2. Review your current habits. If the two of you are used to having lunch together, becoming a couple is no reason to stop. If you develop rules based on your habits, it will make following them a lot easier.

3. Decide what's inappropriate. Public displays of affection are taboo in the workplace. You two may decide it's okay to give each other a quick peck on the cheek before entering the building, however. Set up these guidelines in advance so neither of you cross the line.

4. Talk out tough situations. If you two are in the same department, you should prepare to handle uncomfortable questions from co-workers. Try role-playing to determine what they might say and how you should handle that conversation.

5. Review your rules periodically. Some will not work in practice, so leaving them open for review will help you both follow them.

Tips & Warnings

• Set up relationship rules that you both can abide by, and be realistic. Creating reasonable rules will help your office romance flourish.

• Create rules that will minimize co-worker discomfort. Some colleagues will be supportive of your office romance, but others won't. No matter which side of the fence they're on, no one wants to hear your lovey phone conversations or catch you two making out in the office supply closet.

• Do not have sex at work. It can have devastating effects on your career, and is inappropriate behavior for everyone.

• Don't set up relationship rules that are too complicated. If you micromanage every possible encounter you can have, it will be confusing to remember all your rules. The KISS principle (keep it simple, stupid) works well when determining relationship rules for the workplace.