Can you date someone at work? That’s a loaded question of course, as so much depends on the situation and context. Frankly, in today’s world this isn’t such a good idea. At the very least, you should be much more careful, and frankly more discerning when facing this choice. There will always be issues and more pressure, so you have to ask yourself a simple question . . . is the added risk associated with an office fling or relationship worth the trouble?
One factor you have to consider is company policy as it relates to your specific circumstance. Both you and your potential dating partner should both understand if your relationship will be permitted by company policy. If not, there are still risks involved with dating someone at work. Relationship drama is much worse when all your coworkers might know about it. But these risks grow exponentially if you’re violating company policy. If you’re a supervisor thinking about dating someone below you in your department, then you’re asking for trouble and can easily lose your job.
Another factor to consider is whether the two of you want to keep the relationship private or are you fine with dating out in the open. Remember that even if you want to keep it private, the chances are very high that coworkers and bosses will eventually find out.
Finally, keep in mind what’s going on right now. The CEO of McDonald’s was fired after a relationship with an employee. An executive at BlackRock recently lost his job as well. So think before you act!
