Is dating in the workplace really that bad? This is what experts say
Love can sometimes surprise you. Because, what if that one colleague turns out to be really nice? Dating in the workplace still carries a taboo; you should keep work and private life separate. But is a relationship with a colleague really that bad? This is what experts say.
A lasting taboo
Especially if you date a colleague with a higher position, it can lead to quite a bit of gossip. According to psychotherapist and former HR consultant Madeleine Phelan, such relationships are seen as a way to climb the corporate ladder, which causes unrest within a team. In some companies, it is even forbidden. Starting something with a colleague of the same ‘rank’ is usually not such a problem, although it is always wise to mention it to the HR department. Just to avoid awkward situations. According to sexual wellness expert Natasha Marie Narkiewicz, a romance in the workplace also changes the dynamics among colleagues. They may not feel comfortable sharing everything with you anymore, because they fear your partner will automatically know too.
Negative consequences
Even when a relationship is approved, it can, according to Phelan, negatively affect your professional reputation. If your colleagues start to suspect that you are being favored by your partner, it can lead to uncomfortable situations. It can hinder your career opportunities. And can you still be neutral when you have to give feedback to your loved one? In case of doubt, others may take you less seriously. It can also be harder to truly let go of work once you get home. You both know exactly what is going on, and it is naturally very tempting to discuss a few things. Tensions at work carry over to home and vice versa. And, what if it doesn't work out? What does that do to the atmosphere in the office?
What should you pay attention to?
Yet both Phelan and Narkiewicz say that dating in the workplace is not entirely a no-go. You just need to know what you're getting into and check what is allowed and not allowed in your company. It's good to determine together whether you are ready for all the gossip and whether you can prevent the relationship from negatively affecting work. Then there is that one question: what if one of you has to move to another department or even leave the company? Are you willing to do that? And, also not unimportant, what do you want for yourself? Being in love is nice, but you have also worked very hard for your career, and you don't want to jeopardize that lightly. It is something to think about a bit longer. But if you really want to go for it, don't let anything hold you back.
