In today’s world, it often feels like everyone meets their partner via a dating website or app. But for many, the workplace is still the best place to build romantic relationships. If you work in an office, it’s likely that you’ll build good friendships with your colleagues and often these friendships can develop into something more serious. But starting a romance with a colleague does have its own particular challenges and in the early days, it can be a good idea to keep your relationship quiet.
The problems with an office romance
There can be several issues to deal with when starting a relationship with a workmate. You might be worried about other colleagues gossiping about you. Jealousy might arise if colleagues feel you’re receiving special treatment at work because of your relationship – particularly if you are dating someone more senior than yourself. Or your bosses might frown on your relationship if they think it will distract you from your work. So, in the early days of your relationship, it’s usually best to keep your romance under wraps until you’re sure that it is going to turn into something more long-term. The other benefit of keeping things quiet is that if things don’t work out, you won’t have to discuss your failed relationship with colleagues.
Be professional
The first step to keeping your relationship under wraps is to remain professional at all times. Don’t openly flirt with your new partner or start hanging around their desk without a good reason. If you deal with them as part of your day-to-day duties, you could carry on as before and don’t let your relationship impact the quality of your work.
Socialise strategically
If you normally socialise with other colleagues outside work, continue to do so. If you and your partner are suddenly unavailable at the same times, it could raise suspicions.
Arrive and leave separately
Try to make sure you both leave the office at different times. If colleagues see you regularly arriving and leaving at the same time, they’re likely to make a connection. Also, be careful when booking time off – if you always book the same days off, people might ask why.
Don’t overshare
Check who can see your social media posts before uploading pictures or comments that could reveal your relationship.
Decide when to reveal
Of course, if the relationship is going well, you won’t be able to hide it forever. But once you know it’s likely to become a long-term commitment, it will be easier to tell your colleagues.
Finally, make sure you know what your company policy is when it comes to dating colleagues. You might find that one of you must change department or even look for another job if your firm doesn’t allow office romances.