Dating can be a tricky game to play, especially when dating someone you work with. Spending every day in close proximity with someone, naturally ignites a certain bond. However, when this bond is taken a little further, lines can start to blur and feelings take place. Depending on how you go about it, it has the potential to either really help your work ethic and motivation, or throw a spanner into the entire venture. If you feel as though there is something between you and your co-worker, here are some questions to ask before you make the next moves.
What’s Your Previous Dating History Like?
This question applies to both you and your co-worker, however if you don’t know your co-worker’s history, just focus on your own first. If your previous relationships have dramatically imploded, dating a co-worker might not be the best move to make. If something were to happen in such a grandiose way, it may affect your workplace prospects, not to mention, those around you. However, if your relationships are known to end amicably and without additional drama, dating a co-worker might be able to work. You’ll have the knowledge that you’ll probably be able to carry on in the workplace if things go sour.
What Does Your Professional Relationship Entail?
You can ask yourself what work positions you and your co-worker are in and how it may affect your work life. If one of you is in a position that’s more superior to the other, then that ultimately means that one part of your relationship isn’t entirely equal. Whether this matters or not is completely up to you. However, you may encounter problems with this if you’re both on the same team.
What Is The Company Policy On Workplace Relationships?
Some companies require that you disclose your relationship to Human Resources, in order to keep some semblance of transparency. HR can also prefer if you let them know to avoid any conflict of interest regarding work and possible favouritism. This question would probably be more relevant if one of you was a supervisor of some sort. If you’re not sure on the protocol then suss it out a little more before you end up in a potential pickle.
Will You Be Able To Abide By Your Own Boundaries?
Will you be able to keep it professional at work and keep your private lives safe and sound at home? Keeping it strictly profession at work is, of course, essential to career progression and remaining on top of your work load. If you’re both arguing about something at home, would you be able to switch it off while at work and not let it cloud your judgement? If both of you believe you would be able to do this, then kudos to you. You may be able to successfully navigate a relationship with your co-worker.
Image source: Universal Television
