Mixing Work and Romance

Experts warn: be careful of romantic relationships in the workplace, especially in BPO Philippines. 


Oftentimes an office romance starts nice and convenient with that special someone who is so cute and you get along well but there's risk that if the relationship goes sour one day, it may affect your job performance, cause office division, toxic gossip, it can get you fired, sued or both. 


The office is a good place to meet a romantic partner. At work, one can get to see and know more of who the other person is. And working together is a good test if you have chemistry, common backgrounds and shared skills to appreciate about each other.


Yet there are no guarantees especially when it comes to relationships either in the office or out, but there are ways to improve your chances of establishing an office romance and getting to enjoy it too.


Before Asking your Assistant/Aide/Colleague out


Even when the relationship is going well, there's risk of abusing your authority or harming your credibility. 


For example, your sweetheart ask you for a particular task, job position or assignment that you already assigned or delegated to someone else you believe can handle the task or assignment better. 


You're in a tight spot now, either to give in to your partner's request or find a way to let your partner down gently, but you have to make up for it. 


And if you break off the relationship because you see now it's risking your authority, you can be in greater danger as your former beloved could claim you abused your power at the beginning of the relationship. You could end up losing your job and getting sued for harassment.


Before Dating Your Boss


In some corporate environments, this is strictly not allowed, but even if it is permissible, be very very careful. 


Sometimes a relationship with a boss can provide you special privileges


If later on, you and your boss break up, make sure it's on the most friendly terms possible or else your boss may take revenge by making your job difficult.


Your boss can assign you more tasks, or limit your resources or opportunities at work. You'll be forced to resign and look for a job


Be Honest Always


If you're not serious about having a long-term relationship and are only looking for a fun fling, please such promises in your efforts to attract or woo. 


Being honest and sincere is always important in any relationship; filial, platonic or romantic but especially so in the workplace. 


When you're courting or being courted and you talk about a possible wedding-bell future and then after a hot date or two suddenly feelings between you start to cool off, and then you start flirting with another officemate, you're asking for trouble, big-time.


Relationship under the Radar


When one is happy in love, it's hard NOT to share the joy with everyone in the office. Don't do it.


Because if you do, the two of you will be watched and followed, like a soap opera.  It gets even more complicated if the two of you are actually colleagues. 


For example, if you're seen helping each other out with work, another co-worker who also needs your assistance may go to the manager and complain you prefer only to work/help your partner.


Remember, Love and Romance happens when it happens but always keep a level head, that no matter how your heart may feel you can still decide what's best for you and your life, working in BPO Philippines.