6. Stay calm if the relationship ends
Not all office romances lead to lasting love. If a relationship ends, follow these steps:
- Keep the details private and avoid discussing the breakup with coworkers.
- Focus on your job, maintain productivity, and seek professional help if needed.
- Minimize contact with your ex at work.
- Refrain from trying to make your ex jealous or interfere with their career.
- Uphold your ethics, and avoid sending hostile emails or attempting to damage your ex’s career.
- Seek assistance from HR if you face threats or harassment after the breakup.
- Pursue outside activities and hobbies to create positive new habits.
Successful office romances can coexist with maintaining professionalism and work integrity, even after they end. Clear and honest communication from the beginning is the key to creating a safe and productive workplace. As you contemplate a Valentine’s Day dinner or drinks with a colleague, remember that it’s essential to have an open conversation about the direction of your relationship. Feeling secure in your workplace is paramount, as Patti Stanger wisely advises.
