Dating your colleague. Can it work?

It isn't surprising that romance develops at the office. We spend a third or more of our lives in the workplace. Office romance can lead to great long-term relationships but it can also cause some uncomfortable situations. 

Before you act on your feelings, it’s important to think through the risks, here are some things to consider before you act on that crush;

1. Of course, there’s the chance that the relationship won’t work out and that there will be hurt feelings on one or both sides. It is important to agree beforehand on how you will approach your breakup to ensure your relationship at least remains professional.
2. Will your feelings get in the way of your job? You shouldn’t let your relationship affect your efficiency and quality of work
3. How is your relationship affecting your colleagues? While you don't have to keep your relationship a secret, you also don't want to have it so on display that it makes your colleagues uncomfortable.
4. It is important to do your research before considering dating a colleague; some companies already have policies against office relationships which could lead to the termination of one or both of you if you don’t tread carefully
5. Is it appropriate? Most relationships between a manager and subordinate are a big no, however good the intentions are. You do not want others to think you got a promotion because you’re in a relationship with your boss and end up deterring your success.

It’s however not all doom and gloom, if your company allows it and the both of you feel like the relationship is really worth giving a shot, the following are things you can do to ensure, your relationship doesn’t affect your work 

• Set some boundaries and ground rules
• Understand the risks of dating a colleague
• Have an exit plan if the relationship doesn’t work
• Disclose the relationship especially to your manger 
• Keep the romance out of the office
• The more serious the relationship gets the more one of you will want to think of leaving the company.

Always remember, your decision not only affects you, but other people, both your careers and those around you.