People spend an average of 8 – 10 hours per day (40 – 60 hour per week) at the work place interacting with each other. Sometimes they are forced to work in a confined area almost invading each other’s space. Close association provides an opportunity for one to observe, appreciate and admire the other person’s generosity, physical appearance, intellect, strength of character etc. People who share similar interests, values, tastes, aspirations and goals are more likely to spend more time together hence close social interaction may lead to close physical contact.

Vault's 2007 Office Romance Survey
The survey was conducted in early January 2007 and is comprised of 575 responses from employees across the U.S.A

From the findings above it appears that almost half of the workforce has either been involved in an affair at work or have strongly considered it.

Upside of office romance

• Happy workers –look forward to coming to work everyday even on week ends.
• No issue with working overtime – Get much more accomplished
• Good team spirit – keep the love in the family
• You may just meet the love of your life- and live happily ever after

Downside of office romance

•         One or both persons loose focus and   become distracted
•         Causes discomfort to other employees especially when there is an open display of affection
•         Jealousy and insecurity set in
•         Claims of favouritism and discrimination
•         Break up can be very stormy and embarrassing
•         False allegation of sexual harassment
•         Voluntary/involuntary separation from job
•         Complications in relationship –woman gets pregnant , wife gets involved, other co-worker in love with same person
•         Embarrassment and disgrace to one or both persons

•         Most times the most powerful ( boss ) stays and the least powerful ( secretary ) goes
•         Shame and scandal in the family

Do

•         Keep it professional – Be a good actor/actress

•         Be sensitive to your co-workers
•         Avoid ugly confrontation with your romancee
•         Discuss terms & condition of the relationship with your romancee
•         Be conscious of the fact that your romancee has to interact with other colleagues at the work place especially those of the opposite sex
•         Be aware of the company’s rules regarding “corporate affairs”
•         Maintain self- control
•         Be discreet and tactful

Don’t

•         Loose focus of your job responsibilities

•         Compromise your standards –values

•         Start the affair if you know you can’t manage it ……like liquor, leave it if know you can’t handle it
•         Abandon/neglect your friends at work
•         Kiss and tell

“Dating on the job is like eating at your desk; invariably it is going to get messy.”   Mark Oldman, Co-founder and   Director of Vault.com.

     Rule of thumb: If you can’t be good then be careful

About the writer:
Wayne A. Powell is a Relationship Counsellor. He operates and Online counselling website which provides a convenient way for both client and therapist to engage with each other from home or office at a time that is expedient to them.You can email him at: crisscounsellor@yahoo.com