THERE is a big difference between a motivational speaker by profession and a love guru, but I do know that it’s hard to stop love when it occurs. And when it happens at a tricky crossroad that may jeopardize your hard-earned career, we all know that we shouldn’t just let cupid do his thing.
Workplace romances can lead to long-term relationships — and even marriage — but they also can also result in uncomfortable situations for the people involved in the relationship, as well as their co-workers.
Do you therefore have to make a choice between the two or should you strike a compromise that allows you, your partner, and the organization to be in their happy places?
Here are few things you might want to think about before you finally settle on making the fall:
1. The company culture- Is it allowed at your workplace?
While many organizations are progressive these days, most are still conservative that they limit relationships within the professional ship to guarantee the focus and objectivity in all processes. Some allow if both do not work within the same department or any related function.
I had officemates before who tried to be discreet about it to avoid regulation, but just like anywhere else, rumors did spread fast. So it’s best to check your Human Resource (HR) manual first to avoid being called in the principal’s office.
2. Your workplace image – How will this affect your co-workers’ perception of you?
We can’t always control what people think about us. But who cares, right? Wrong. At work and in our careers, it matters.
Couples who work together in same teams will always be viewed as biased or favoring each other. And when people believe you are partial to someone, they disengage, call it a foul and most of the time consider your merits as fruits of favors instead of efforts.
3. The side-effect – If this goes wrong, how will it affect you and your career?
I know you’ll do everything to make it work, but it such a tragedy to break up with your own colleague, or anyone you work with on a project that’s already painful and stressful. Not only will it be challenging (and heart-wrenching) to see your ex every day, but you also put your tasks at risk if it rests in their hands.
4. The rules of the upside – How will you guys work this out?
Assuming you already have the green light, how will you maintain the professional space that will keep everyone in business-as-usual mode? How frequent will you spend lunch together? How physically intimate will you be at work? (Not to make everyone else feel awkward) And how will you keep business confidential from each other?
These rules and boundaries matter because they will affect the happiness you both deserve especially since you’ve fought hard to get to this stage now.
While love is something that one shouldn’t rationalize too much, at work, it’s best to let your brains take the reins before your heart acts too fast. Because finding love in the office is so unique that one may need compromising.
Whatever your decision is, it’s your happiness that matters. Best wishes and Happy Valentine’s Day!
*****
Need more tips in life, career and beyond? Invite me to speak in your event or reach me at "Coach Pat de Leon" on Facebook.