Ask Patty: Mixing Business with Pleasure

Ask Patty: Mixing Business with Pleasure

The workplace may be an easy place to meet singles, but that doesn't necessarily make it the ideal place. Our expert weighs in on why work relationships may not be the best decision.

"I am a 24-year-old male who has recently started a brand new job. I am very aware of the phrase 'never dip your pen in the company ink,' but I am wildly attracted to one of my female co-workers! She is smart and outgoing and seems to like me a lot, too. Should I ask her out and see if she feels the same way, or will this cause problems in the workplace?”
— Evan (Blue Ash, Ohio)

Patty:

I actually just saw a special on Good Morning America a couple months ago on this very topic. Many more people are finding their significant others in the workforce now than in years past, according to the segment. As the CEO of a company, I've seen this happen throughout the years in my own office, and I personally do not encourage it.

Once the excitement wears off, couples often find that they have put themselves in a precarious situation. If one partner loses interest or worse, betrays the other, you are stuck working together on a daily basis. Considering that many of us spend more time at the office than our own homes, you probably want to keep your workplace as an emotionally neutral and pleasant environment as possible. Beginning a relationship in the office is jeopardizing the means to this end.

You also should consider checking the policy of where you work. Many offices prohibit employee dating for this very reason. Are you or your potential love interest willing to give up your job? Depending on your corporate policy, you may be forced to choose. So it's best to weigh these consequences before taking any action.

Another reason this type of arrangement could cause problems is that some couples need space to breathe, and when you are with one another day in and day out, you have little time away from each other. Time apart allows you to miss one another and share exciting news about your day. There are happy, healthy couples who work together and even run businesses together successfully. But I would venture to say that they are probably the exception over the norm.

Whatever you decide, make sure you are looking at the big picture and not letting the excitement of the chase get the better of you.

Patty Brisben -
	Patty Brisben is the CEO and Founder of Pure Romance. She is Cincy Chic's relationship columnist, and you can send her an e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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