Have you ever felt undeniably attracted to a coworker? Have you ever wondered if it’s okay to have sex or flirt with a coworker? Have you ever had too much to drink at an office party and gone home with a client or co-worker? Do you know someone else who has done it? Then this article may be for you!
Most companies have strict policies on labor relations and support employees who are in professional relationships that do not include sexual relations due to legal issues and due to potential loss of productivity or employees due to rumors and drama!
Although it can be very tempting to act on your desire or impulse, here are some tips to keep in mind if you want to enjoy your working relationships and stay out of trouble at work.
Here are some dangers of sex in the workplace.
Danger #1: “Happy Hour Hookups.” Coworkers sometimes go out together for drinks after work. While it’s okay to socialize, some people have too many drinks and end up going home with someone from work. The risk of this includes losing your job or your credibility with coworkers.
Danger #2: “Sleeping Through” If you become sexually involved with bosses or people who report to you, you could file a sexual harassment lawsuit against yourself, lose your job, or be forced to resign.
Hazard #3: “The Hot Air Balloon Ride.” Gossip floats through offices as people share “hot air” with the latest juicy tidbits. People feed on the news and make you look bad. If you’re building teams or trying for a promotion, it can be a deal breaker.
Danger #4: “The morning after the blues.” Remember, the person you connect with is the person you have to see in the office. This can be uncomfortable for a long time, if not permanently, while you both work there.
Danger #5: Avoid flirting by making sexual comments or joking with co-workers. You can be sued for harassment. Also, it makes others feel uncomfortable and is not courteous. If others flirt or make comments to you, ask them to stop. If they don’t stop, you can report them to a supervisor or your human resources department.
Now that you know the dangers, you can now decide if answering the collegiate booty call is worth the risk. One of my coaching clients was forced to leave a long term contract because he had a sexual relationship with someone at the company who then turned on him and sabotaged his reputation and his ability to do business with that company.
So what is an alternative? If you’re single and looking for a connection, why not play in someone else’s playpen? You can go out or pick up a person other than your co-worker. That way, you can have a no-strings-attached encounter, if that’s what you’re looking for.
I hope these success tips are helpful in promoting your health and happiness while you are at work and at rest.