There’s nothing like an office romance to cause you to leap out of bed before the alarm clock rings. 

Dating at work helps the slow workday move faster when you’ve found a little office romance hidden under the cubicle. But is it worth the risk?

The office romance is electric…

In my mid 20’s I had along term romance with a gentleman at work.  At the company Christmas party we bonded over out love of food, music and the electric slide.  Throughout our year long dating adventure, we kept our passion a secret from everyone at work.   We were out of the closet during evenings and weekends; but in during the workday.

Welcome to the covert love mission, 007

At first being Octopussy to his James Bond was fun.  Our academic campus was filled with gossipy harpies so we wisely kept our relationship a secret.  Eventually I couldn’t maintain the love charade and we parted ways.  

However, I did learn a few valuable lessons for dating at work.

1) Follow the HR rules

Can you date someone at work? Is it against the policies of the position to mix romance with finance?  Check your human resource policy manual.  Some companies design employee relationship policies against dating to relinquish liability.

2) Think long term 

Dating at work can be a drag if the relationship sours.  You might have to see and interact with this person daily.  The butterflies in your stomach will turn to heavy bricks of despair and regret when the thrill is gone.

3) No public displays of affection in the office  

Any smooching, hand-holding and PDA at work are prohibited. Period.  Who cares if you found a quiet secluded broom closet to “get your freak on?”  Want to get caught by the janitor or your boss and risk ridicule and career suicide?

If you’re single and searching for love, work may be the best place to find a kindred spirit with common interests.  Taking a trip on the office love train can be complicated yet exhilarating.  Prepare for the best ride of your life or a constant reminder of a one night stand with the date from hell.