smallbusiness.co.uk: Helping your business think big

Workplace relationships do happen, unsurprisingly when you consider how much time is spent at work by many in the UK. But when romance does blossom what can you do to ensure professionalism and productivity do not suffer.

It might be worth having a quiet word with the happy couple to highlight the potential problems and the need to be professional within the workplace.

Alternatively you could speak to their manager, discuss your concerns, and ask them to address the relationship, early on to avoid it becoming an issue in the office. Many organisations state that employees have to inform their line manager if they have a relationship with another employee. The manager can then ensure that the individuals involved are aware of the need to behave professionally and not bring their private life into the workplace.

Some UK employers are following the US in terms of “anti-dating” clauses in employment terms because they are concerned about sexual harassment claims if the marriage or relationship breaks down, or if employees handle sensitive information as part of their job e.g. lawyers, bankers and accountants. However, this is quite difficult to enforce and may just encourage employees to keep their relationships quiet.

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