New York Employment Lawyer Blog

Stephanie Rosenbloom has a great article in the New York Times today about office dating, "Boss's Memo: Go Ahead, Date (with my blessing)." Since most of us spend most of our time at work, it is no surprise that many of us date at work. Rosenbloom's articles explains that while once taboo, office dating is now OK - people accept it and companies are coming around too.

One of the major concerns that companies have about office romance is the potential for sexual harassment suits. But that is decreasing.

Lets look at the core of sexual harassment and why it is illegal. Sexual harassment laws were created to protect people from unwanted sexual or romantic attention at work. The workplace presents risks that are not normally present. For example, a boss could abuse his authority to coerce another into a relationship by threatening termination or demotion etc. Also, at work one could be forced to spend time or share space with someone who does not realize that "he's just that not into it's you." If you work with someone like this, report them, and change your style to turn them off. When these options have been exhausted then it's time to write emails and letters to HR and tell them to help clean up the dating damage. If the company chooses to ignore the issue, then be even more pro-active and sue the company because they just don't get it.

So this sexual harassment stuff is reserved for extreme situations and overly zealous employees. Most office romances are perfectly legal and it is how many of us fall in love. Here are seven ground rules for survival:

1. Date people who do not work near you because it's not comfortable for your peers and clearly you don't want to be near them if it doesn't work out.
2. Don't date your boss because what if you get promoted to his or her level. That could be a deal breaker for your relationship.
3. Don't hide it. No one likes sneaky people so don't be one.
4. Check the company personnel manual first. If the company does not want you to date at work, then don't at the office.
5. No PDA at work because it's not as cute as you might think.
6. If you are a boss and you date a direct subordinate, you are risking your job.
7. If you mix love and work, draw clear boundaries and don't cross them. Work is work and keep it that way.

Good luck and date smart if it you are going to have an office romance.