LOVE AFFAIRS AND LAW SUITS
Ain’t love grand?
Not always.
Well, in honor of Valentine’s Day, I thought I would tackle what can sometimes be a very sensitive subject: workplace romance.
This is not a new topic and everyone has an opinion. However, when it comes right down to it, romantic relationships at work are going to happen. You just can’t stop two people from being attracted to each other.
In fact, experts indicate that work is a highly tempting source for couples because
it’s a comfortable environment where you have a chance to get to know people without the initial pressure of romance.
The problem is that when coworkers are romantically involved it doesn’t only impact the couple. It can cause friction if word should leak out, and depending on who is involved it can also lead to complaints of favoritism. In addition, if the relationship goes sour, at its best it can cause low morale or damage productivity at its worst it could lead to sexual harassment claims.
That’s why it’s important to keep these three things in mind if you are considering such a move. First, avoid dating your boss or subordinates. Second, be discrete in order to control gossip. Finally, check out your company’s policy on office romances.
As an employer, the most important steps you can take are to have a written policy that is well communicated. You might even consider a “love contract.”
Put simply, it states that the relationship is mutually agreeable and unrelated to the company. As part of the agreement, couples acknowledge the company policy on sexual harassment and agree to settle any relationship disputes privately.
Along with your policy be sure to have management training on the risks involved in and how to deal with any fallout.
Whatever your organization chooses, the best course of action when dealing with workplace romance is to foster an environment of open communication in order to avoid any future misunderstandings.
Explore posts in the same categories: Recruiting, Employee Relations
