Dating a Coworker: What to Consider
5 min read · 中文版
When you spend every day together, developing feelings for a coworker is natural. But dating someone at work involves more than the two of you: your jobs, your colleagues and company policy. Before acting, a few things are worth thinking through.
Check company policy first
Some companies have clear rules on workplace relationships, especially between managers and their reports, which may need to be disclosed or may not be allowed. Read the employee handbook.
If they're your manager or report to you, even a mutual relationship can raise fairness and power issues, so take extra care.
Showing interest the right way
Get to know them outside work tasks first, like at a team dinner or over coffee after work, and see whether they seem interested too.
If you ask them out, make it easy for them to say no. If they're not interested, accept it and keep things normal at work. Don't keep asking.
Once you're together
Stay professional at work, avoid public displays of affection in the office, and never let the relationship influence work decisions.
Agree together whether and when to tell colleagues. Keep personal disagreements out of work.
If you break up
Seeing each other every day after a breakup is hard. Think beforehand about whether you could stay professional if it ends.
Afterwards, stay polite and don't discuss each other with colleagues. Give yourself time and space if you need it.
Frequently asked questions
Should I tell a coworker I like them?
Check company policy and watch how they respond to you first. If it seems OK, choose a private, relaxed moment and leave room for them to say no.
A coworker asked me out and I'm not interested. How do I say no?
Be sincere and brief, and say you'd like to keep a good working relationship. Our guide to turning someone down can help. If they keep pressing, ask HR for support.
Should we go public with our office relationship?
Decide together. Some companies require disclosure; otherwise, keeping a low profile is usually more comfortable.
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