How to Avoid Office Romances

Avoid office romances by behaving professionally at work.

Most employees are well aware of the potential risks they face with an office romance. This type of work relationship could result in losing all credibility at work, getting fired or even being accused of sexual harassment. Still, statistics show that most employees are willing to engage in this risky behavior. According to a 2009 survey conducted by the job search website Career Builder, four in 10 workers admitted that they have dated a coworker at some time during their careers. Given those statistics, it is obvious how tempting an office romance can be unless you take the necessary steps to avoid it.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Phone book
• Employee handbook

Instructions

1. Attend only work-related social events. Social events such as your company's Christmas parties, luncheons and dinners with the boss are great opportunities for you to get to know your coworkers, and you are almost always obligated to attend. You are not, however, expected to attend any of the events that are organized by your coworkers. Politely decline any invitation you are given to get together with your coworkers after work, even if you might be looked at as unfriendly.

2. Behave professionally at all times. Avoid flirting, gossiping and delving into the personal lives of others at work. If your coworkers try to engage you in a conversation that is not related to work, steer the conversation back to a work-related topic. Keep the joking and office banter to a minimum. Refer to your employee handbook if you are ever in doubt about what is considered acceptable behavior.

3. Develop friendships outside of work. Take up a hobby, join a club and go out and meet other people who have similar interests. Your goal is to have a group of friends outside of work that could introduce you to that special someone. This will also keep you from being tempted to hang out with your coworkers.

4. Meet professionals in other settings. Even if you can't date someone from work, you still have the option to meet individuals who work in your field. There are hundreds of organizations located across the U.S. that offer opportunities for you to network with other professionals. Use the phone book or Internet to locate a professional organization in your area. You might be required to pay a registration fee to gain admission to its local networking events and seminars. You can also enroll in a career development course at a local college to meet other single professionals.

References

• Monster: Danger: Office Romance Ahead
• Career Builder: Forty Percent of Workers Have Dated a Co-Worker, Finds Annual CareerBuilder.com Valentine's Day Survey