Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. While not encouraged by most employers, there’s no denying that love is in the air at many American work environments – with coworkers dating, and possibly even spouses working at the same company.
A survey by recruiting and staffing company Spherion Corp., said that about a third of U.S. workers have said they would consider having a workplace romance.
The poll found that 30 percent were hesitant to date a coworker for fear it would jeopardize their job security or advancement opportunities, and about a third of those who reported having an office fling said they kept it a secret. Women were more likely to keep their romances under wraps — 35 percent compared with 25 percent of men.
Meanwhile, nearly 60 percent reported that their company does not have a policy on relationships in the workplace.
So how should those lovebirds act come February 14th? When it comes to office romance, what is appropriate and inappropriate behavior while on the job? What if you’ve been harboring feelings for a coworker, how should you act with Cupid’s holiday coming soon?
Let’s delve into this often delicate situation – to help navigate your way through potentially career-limiting moves.
It’s important to remember that Valentine’s Day in the office is still in the office. That means:
• No public displays of affection.
• Use your day to work — the evening belongs to you.
• Flowers and cards are appropriate, as long as they don’t embarrass or put people on the spot.
• Always avoid office relationships if one or both parties are married to others.
• If you get flowers and extravagant gifts from your spouse or significant others, don’t brag and make others feel bad.
• Valentine’s Day isn’t the time to “come on” to a coworker. Let the relationship evolve or forget about it.
In other words, common courtesies and common sense are to be used on Valentine’s Day like any other day!