How to Have a Secret Office Romance

Many businesses have policies in place that stipulate what employees can date. This is done to make sure that all employees are treated equally and that the company is protected against any potential problems because of an office romance. Because of these policies, it is sometimes necessary to keep an office romance a secret.

Instructions

1. Decide if the romance is worth losing your job. This is especially important if you are considering having a relationship with a subordinate. Things may seem good now but, think about what will happen if you break up. Some claims of sexual harassment have come out of break ups between a manager and subordinate.

2. Act the same as always. Make sure that you treat your romantic interest the same as you have always treated her. Playing favorites or trying to always be around are sure to draw attention to the relationship.

3. Be careful when you ask for days off. If you and your romantic interest are always asking for the same days off or calling in on all the same days, people may begin to talk.

4. Keep your romance a secret from everyone in the office. You may think that it is safe to tell a friend that works with you. This is usually a very bad idea. That person may inadvertently make a comment that draws attention to your office romance.

5. Use caution when you are in public. If you want to go out, it may be best to go out in a near by big city where you are less likely to run into someone from the office. It is essential that you keep your hands off of each other any time that you are around anyone from the office. Public displays of affection will get the gossip mill going.

6. Talk to your superior if you know that your secret office romance will soon be public knowledge. You may be able to work something out to keep your job despite the romance if you are the one to inform the higher ups about the situation.

7. Consider finding a new job. If the office romance gets serious, one or both of you may need to seek other employment. If you do this, give a proper notice so that you will have a good reference.