Workplace romances may be bad for morale

Yes. About half of employees report they've had at least one office romance, but only 5 percentof employees say they'd tell their human resources department. Though it's generally acknowledged that employees in a direct line of reporting shouldn't consort or become romantically involved, such romances continue to occur, even if less frequently since the rise of the #MeToo movement.

While some employers have completely banned office romance,it's more common for employers to establish policies placing certain restrictions and parameters on dating, particularly between those who have reporting relationships.

Yes. A potential problem with any romantic workplace relationship is that it may not end amicably. In fact, some end quite badly and lead to significant problems such as workplace or domestic violence, stalking, employees quitting or being reassigned and more. At a minimum, these romances gone bad may create conflict and sensitivities that extend throughout the workplace and hurt morale, productivity and employee retention. Workplace relationships also have the potential to result in harassment claims should an overzealous employee attempt to start a relationship with an uninterested co-worker or when an initially consensual relationship ends. That's why it makes good business sense for business owners and human resources professionals to give careful thought to whether they wish to prohibit or discourage romantic relationships at work.

If a company doesn't have a policy addressing workplace relationships, they should strongly consider adopting a policy that addresses employee fraternization, including romantic relationships in the workplace. Employers should also address current relationships and monitor them carefully to make sure that no discriminatory treatment, improper and/or unprofessional behavior or favoritism occurs or interferes with work. Employers should also implement a conflicts of interest policy requiring employees to disclose any actual or potential conflict that could adversely affect judgment, objectivity, focus on work, or loyalty to the employer. As with any policy, such policies should be applied consistently, with training to supervisors and employees on workplace harassment and also on what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate workplace conduct. Employers should also keep in mind that interactions that occur via social media can spill over into the workplace. Finally, employers should always take harassment claims seriously and address them immediately and fully.