Love in the workplace: not so hot

Peter Cullen

There are an enormous number of relationships based on love, lust or one-night encounters existing within workplaces. Some of these are open, many are kept secret and others are put down to a bad experience but a valuable lesson.

If your relationship is love and you find yourself happily married then congratulations on a great effort.

Unfortunately most of the encounters do not end up this way. Long-standing or brief encounters in the workplace can be full of trouble and torment.

People often ask themselves whether the relationship should be kept a secret or made open for all to see. How romantic or professional should we be? How much time should we spend together at work? What will our colleagues think? Do we really need all this grief in the workplace?

One important question most people do not consider is what will happen if their relationship fails?

This is where it can get really uncomfortable. Some people will end up moving to another company because of the negative or destructive influences of a break-up. Previously friendly colleagues may turn against you as they side with your ex-partner.

It can become an uncomfortable place to be.

Another important consideration is how your employer views internal relationships. Some think it is fine as long as it does not become a disruptive influence or reduce productivity while others will frown upon such behaviour.

Most of us at some stage will have at least considered a romantic liaison with someone you spend about eight hours a day with at work. How you react to it is up to you but at least make sure you understand the possible outcomes.

Peter Cullen is director of corporate wellbeing company mindforce-au.com