Has someone in your office caught your eye? It’s true, 15% of couples report that they met each other in the workplace. But, do you really want to get into a relationship with a co-worker? Is this crush better left untouched? We have the pros and cons you’ll want to consider before diving into a relationship with your co-worker.
Pro #1: You Can Get To Know Them As A Friend First
Though many of us have heard the advice to start out as friends before you date someone, we don’t tend to heed it. But, it can be very healthy for a relationship to begin in a friendship before it escalates to something more. This will put less pressure on both parties. And you can interact freely without the fear of acting the wrong way or impressing someone.
Con #1: It May Be Forbidden
Some workplaces actually forbid people from dating the people they work with. This is usually the case in a supervisor to supervisee relationship. And, it could get inappropriate fast if you are someone’s boss and begin seeing them romantically. You don’t want to be accused of showing favoritism. Likewise, you might have a better time making friends at your new workplace if you don’t start dating your boss right when you start. Make sure that you review your companies’ policy on dating before you make any decisions.
Pro #2: They Could Have Similar Interests
If you are in the same line of work, that must mean that you have plenty of things in common. And, contrary to popular belief, people who are similar end up together in healthier relationships, more than people who are very different. They might have majored in the same thing as you in college, or do similar post-work activities. This will give you plenty to talk about and bond over when you go on that first date.
Con #2: It Could Be Majorly Awkward For Others
This goes for when you are dating and if you break up. People in your office might not know how to treat you if you are together. They also may not know how to respond if you break up. You don’t want people to be forced to take sides. Make sure that you can interact with each other normally at work. No one wants to see you kissing or showing any PDA at work. Or, wasting work hours talking when you should be working. If you do start dating someone from the office, you might want to keep it under wraps until it’s more serious.
Pro #3: You Can Stalk Easily
If you are someone who likes to keep tabs on their new man, you just hit the lottery. You can join him for lunch every day, and see if he talks to any other pretty girls in the office. Plus, you have a front seat view of what type of worker he is. One of the most critical qualities all men should have is ambition and being able to provide for a family. Make sure that he is a hard worker before you take it to the next level.
Con #3: You Might Be Around Him Too Much
Consider the size of your office. For instance, if you just had a big fight, you have to come to work and see them. This can also influence your work negatively if you are always thinking about them or how to fix your relationship. Also, you might just get plain sick of them. Being with someone 8 hours a day, and then seeing them at night can be a lot of togetherness. Make sure that you don’t mind being around him more than most couples.
As you can see, there are many positives and negatives about dating a co-worker. I would advise that you wisely consider the whole picture before jumping into a relationship. Yes, you might find love at work, but you don’t want to lose your job over it.
For tips on surviving making a mistake at work, check out our article here.
