How to Survive a Workplace Romance

Office romances can cause a relationship to sour. We are in close quarters with an individual who understands our work and shares our passion. Couple that with a physical attraction and it's a recipe for love. Or disaster. Either way, these steps can help you survive a workplace romance.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Limit workplace romances. Date only one individual at a time from the same company. Keep quiet about the relationship. Resist the temptation to share any aspect of it with anyone at work, even the most trusted colleague.

2. Self-monitor conversation that invites questions about a date's identity. Say, "I went to the movies last night" instead of "we went to the movies last night."

3. Stagger arrival and departure times from work. Carpool with another person to alleviate suspicion.

4. Assume others are watching at all time and pass up any opportunity to hold hands, hug, kiss, touch casually or have any other physical contact. Maintain a safe distance from one another at all times to eliminate any suspicion on the part of co-workers.

5. Use discretion at company luncheons, picnics, parties, outings or off-site meetings. Take care not to drink too much, dance intimately, spend too much time together or openly display affection.

6. Remember that employers often monitor and store company email. Communicate in ways that cannot be reviewed or infiltrated by co-workers or the employer.

7. Keep personal difficulties out of the workplace. Choose a long weekend for a break-up. Face the reality that a transfer or resignation may be necessary when an office romance ends.