It’s no secret that love connections occur in the workplace. Turns out, it happens all the time.
According to a 2011 survey conducted by CareerBuilder.com, four out of 10 workers have dated a colleague at some point in their careers.
As an HR executive, that’s a lot of risky business to manage — not to mention the serious legal issues that could crop up. And while love often gets a bad rap in the workplace (think messy split or the boss knockin’ boots with the secretary), there are some upsides when Cupid pays a visit.
Here are four benefits of workplace romance:
1. The Benefit: Increased Production. Let’s face it, it’s hard to separate work from home as it is. We tend to bring work into discussions around the dinner table and when both parties are from the same company, the conversations increase. But hey, what’s not to love about extra mindshare being donated to your cause outside of normal business hours?
The “gotcha”: Conversations about work at home are great; conversations about home at work can cause discomfort especially when the lovebirds aren’t seeing eye-to-eye.
The fix: Jump on “TMI” as soon as it crops up. Make it clear that you expect 100% professionalism at all times and while you support their decision to enter into a relationship, the workplace is not the place to share sordid details.
2. The Benefit: Higher Retention. Having a spouse, partner, or romantic interest at work can breed longevity. The fact that the same company employs both partners speaks to some strong, shared interests. Add in greater benefits, perks, and perhaps a double-down in stock options and you’ve got yourself some compelling financial reasons to stay in the same boat.
The “gotcha”: Sticking around purely for monetary considerations is never a good scenario for employers. When workers “nest and vest”, they tank productivity and sap employee engagement. In addition, staffers could be playing double jeopardy with their finances should lay-offs occur.
The fix: Track engagement levels of your employees at all times — whether they’re involved in a relationship with a co-worker or not. At the first sign of waning interest or productivity, sit down for a heart-to-heart on what is required of them should they choose to remain with the company. When you spot a budding relationship, surface the potential pitfalls of putting all eggs in one basket before things get too serious.
3. The Benefit: Positive Culture. Organizations that hold their employees accountable for handling themselves (and others) with care, dignity, and respect, will often experience higher employee morale. Building high levels of trust amongst managers and workers can send positive vibes throughout the organization, becoming the kind of contagion that organizations welcome.
The “gotcha”: When love is true, it is a beautiful thing. But when favors happen for political or monetary gain, it can get ugly REAL fast.
The fix: To avoid a spontaneous resurgence of the Free Love movement in your office space, provide a brief policy that clearly states whom can mingle with whom. And if a direct report falls for a manager, outline how he or she can request a transfer.
4. The Benefit: It’s Sweet. Enough said. Nothing creates warm fuzzies in the office like seeing two co-workers walking on air.
The “gotcha”: There is none.
The fix: If this bothers you, then my guess is that you’re lonely and in desperate need of a date. And I have an idea of where you should look….
Halley Bock is the CEO of Seattle-based Fierce, Inc., a leadership development and training company that drives results for businesses by improving workplace communication.