How to Avoid Infidelity at the Office

Most affairs and infidelities happen in the office with co-workers and clients. This is because a friendly work relationship can easily evolve into something deeper before you even realize it. This is why it is important to be purposeful in avoiding infidelity at the office. Here are some steps you can take.

Instructions

1. Keep your hands to yourself. Outside of a handshake and occasional pat on the shoulder, there is no reason for co-workers to touch each other. Even the most innocent touching could lead to feelings of affection. Be on guard against excessive touching and do not let others touch you excessively.

2. Have public meetings with people who you could be attracted to: If you must have one-on-one meetings with someone of the opposite sex, or someone who you could possibly be attracted to, then it should be done in public. Use a public lunchroom or boardroom where others will be in your vicinity. This tactic not only eliminates the possibility of anything untoward happening, but it also eliminates the appearance of any improprieties.

3. Don’t have lunch “dates”: Do not eat lunch with the same person every day. Having daily meals together will forge a relationship where you may not want to forge one. Instead, use your lunch time to get to know all of the people you work with, having meals in large groups, or hunting down a different person to eat with each day.

4. Do not take on a work spouse. The phrase ‘work spouse’ has become very popular and it means someone of the opposite sex who you work closely with and build a good relationship. While it is OK to build a good relationship with a teammate at work, they should stay a teammate and never be referred to or allowed to take on the attributes of a spouse.

5. Keep reminders of your family handy. Let people know you are not available by keeping reminders of your significant others in full display. Photographs, small mementos, even card with (un-embarrassing) personal notes should be in full display so no one can get the idea that you may need a little attention at work.

Tips & Warnings

• If other people think that you may be in an affair, you need to reevaluate your actions even if you are not.

• Kissing and hugging is inappropriate for the workplace and should be saved for your family at home.