What About Dating Someone With Whom I Don’t Work Directly?

In larger companies with many different departments, it is usually okay to date someone with whom you do not work directly. It’s nice to have someone to share your thoughts with during the day, and let’s face it, it’s good for your ego to have an admirer in the workplace. Just remember, you are there to work, and if you find yourself spending too much time visiting one another, it is going to reflect on your job performance. It is also a good idea to keep the relationship quiet, even in this instance. There really is no need to draw attention to your personal life, especially if you are in a position of authority. Your personal life should remain just that… personal.

What About Harassment Laws?

This is where the whole issue of dating someone in the workplace gets real sticky. Businesses are keenly aware of sexual harassment laws, and what may seem like an innocent flirtation might be taken the wrong way. There is a thin line between what is acceptable and what is not, and it is very important that all parties tread with caution. Overtly sexual gestures are always wrong, but sometimes, what one person sees as a friendly approach can be taken the wrong way.

The best approach is to develop a friendship first before attempting to take the relationship to another level. If you are attracted to someone at work, get to know him or her in a casual setting – perhaps at a company event or luncheon. If a group is going out after work and the person to whom you are attracted is likely to be there, be part of the group. Take is slow and easy, and make sure that the attraction is mutual. Be careful in situations where alcohol is involved, though.

Once you are fairly certain that the person is interested, make a lunch date. This will enable you to spend some time together one-on-one, but the period of time is not open-ended. If this goes well, and you are both comfortable with one another, the next step can be a more formal date. The key is to take it slow.