Alexis ponders the possibility of an office romance

by Alexis Thompson
Girl Friday
Friday, 21st October 2011

Next week I'll be starting a new job, in a new office with a whole new bunch of people. And considering the workplace is one of the most common places to meet a new love interest, I may be in luck, as the girl to guy ratio in my new office definitely works in my favour.

However, from past experience I know that office romances aren't always such a good idea, especially if it's a whirlwind affair that ends in tears. Going into work to be greeted by the person who dumped you day after day, can take its toll on your well being. Worse still if your colleagues know what happened, it could also be rather humiliating. If someone has caught your eye and you feel it's worth the risk, then follow these tips to ensure your office affair goes smoothly.

Save the romance for outside of the office

If you're in a relationship with a colleague it's best to keep a low profile in the office, so this means no public displays of affection or domestic rows. Keep professional, maintain a distance from one another, and try not to visit places after work where you'll also find your co-workers.

Check the company's policies

Be aware of your company's rules and regulations. Some companies do have policies regarding relationships between co-workers, and if it's against the rules, then ask yourself if it's really worth it. If it is, then make sure you're discreet, remember not everybody needs to know, and prepare for the consequences if you are found out.

Prepare for the worst case scenario

The worst case scenario is that you'll split up but still have to continue working together. It's best to agree in the beginning how you will deal with a potential break-up. Avoid a messy break-up and any subsequent drama. Remember if you bring your problems into work, then it will have an effect on your colleagues too.

Consider finding a new job

If things get very serious, it may be a good idea for one of you to consider applying for another position outside the company. Working with a loved one can be challenging, not just on your career but also on your relationship- it may be better all round if one of you decides to leave.

topic tags: body language, chat up, conversation, flirting, relationships

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about the author

Alexis is a 27-year-old and very often, cash-strapped journo, searching for her ideal man in London. After being single for almost a year, since splitting with her first long term love, she's decided to ditch the night clubs and bars, and start finding more mature and sophisticated ways of meeting her Mr Right. Join her every Friday as she describes the trials and tribulations of discovering love in a city that has little time for romance, as well as offering advice to those in search of the same thing or who may not have realised they've already found it.

Alexis writes a weekly blog for Dating Trail. If you'd like to be be first to find out about her next installment then please follow us on Twitter or 'Like' our Facebook page for updates.

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