Your Workplace Love Affair Isn’t As Covert As You Think – 7 Most Common Myths

Workplace affections are nearly universally discouraged by company policy. Yet, they happen quite frequently. Vault.com’s 2016 Office Romance Survey revealed half of surveyed businesspeople have engaged in some type of office romance. Whether it’s with a superior, a peer, someone from a different department or even a different location, a workplace love affair is an especially sticky situation to navigate with many myths built into the topic.

Sharon Schweitzer, a cross-cultural consultant, business etiquette expert and founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide, breaks down the seven most common myths about workplace relationships.

Myth #1: your relationship is confidential.

Unfortunately, this is not the case. The romance is obvious and your colleagues are keen observers. Be aware of how your actions not only affect you and your partner, but also your work community and environment.

 Myth #2: there is not a power dynamic.

There will always be a power dynamic involved, it comes with the territory. Whether the two potential lovers are peers at the time or not, someone is higher in the hierarchy. This adds politics, drama, and possibly harassment to the equation.

Myth #3: no one else is involved.

Not the case my friend, not the case. Your colleagues are dramatically impacted by favoritism and a new angle on office politics. If even the slightest appearance of impropriety or preferential treatment seems to be occurring, the employer may be liable for a hostile work environment. The potential consequences of your working tryst are harsh.

Myth #4: it’s personal, not business.

No, it’s not personal. This is a very slippery slope in office relationship dynamics. Generally, follow the rule that if it happens in the workplace or is connected to a business relationship, it’s business. This helps to eliminate favoritism and also keeps your professional and personal lives separate.

Myth #5: there’s no reporting necessary.

In most cases, this is wrong. Office relationships usually violate a company’s sexual harassment prevention policy. You may be required to report that you are dating or romantically involved. Knowing where you stand with your organization can help you make decisions.

Myth #6: all’s well that ends well.

These relationships can end in a myriad of ways. From successful marriages, damaged personal brands and widespread catastrophe, office relationships are a dangerous cocktail for thirsty professionals.

Myth #7 Gender doesn’t matter.

The United States ranks 28th out of 145 countries in the 2015 Global Gender Gap Index. In terms of wage equality, the United States is ranked 74th. Knowing that gender does matter, and that as a female engaged in a workplace affair, you have more to lose. Women may have another hurdle to leap, jeopardized job stability, and an altered career ladder.

With that being said, do any workplace love affairs workout? We know a few.