Articles : Tips to Consider When Pursuing an Inter-Office Romance

Valentine's Day is here and love is in the air!

With approximately 2/3 of one's day being spent at work, it's only natural that relationships will develop within the workplace. Working with others to successfully complete projects, taking lunch breaks together and working in a close environment on a regular basis are definite ways to assist in the development of sparks!

Workplace relationships can be tricky to handle, especially if the relationship doesn't work out.

For this reason, TorontoJobs.ca felt that we should share our top tips to consider when pursuing an office romance:

1. Investigate Company Policies: It's a good idea to find out what the organization's take is on inter-office dating before jumping into a relationship with a co-worker. If the connection is serious, it's a good idea to let your boss know before they find out by way of the "water cooler gossip".

2. "Breaking up is Hard to Do": Dating a co-worker or boss might seem like a great idea at first, however, think about the repercussions if the relationship ends in failure. Entering into a relationship with someone you work with that ends on a sour note could lead to awkward boardroom meetings and tension in the workplace.

3. Do your Research: You may work with your colleague but how much do you know about them outside of work? It's a good idea to do some research on your potential "love interest" to ensure they aren't married with children or living a secret life you may not know about.

4. Play it Safe: Starting a relationship with a co-worker may have to be kept a secret. Between the hours of 9-5 be prepared to act as if nothing is happening between each other. Avoid intimate contact and make sure guidelines are set up front to ensure you are both on the same page to ensure that problems don't arise that may affect your job.

5. Keep Social Networking in Mind: In today's society, information travels fast. Ensure that your professional and personal profiles are kept separately on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking tools. You never know who might be connected to you that could break the silence of your new relationship.

Written by Rachel Mitchell, Manager, Business Development, TorontoJobs.ca.  TorontoJobs.ca is a full-service recruitment organization, including TorontoJobs.ca Website, Career Fairs, full-service Recruitment Division and Outplacement Services. The local focus and advanced features make TorontoJobs.ca a vital asset for both job seekers and employers within the Greater Toronto Area. Visit our Online Career Centre for additional articles on Career Development, Personal Branding and more!