Working relationships

There’s news this week that romantic relationships at work have been banned by one third of employers.  It might be argued that workplace romances can affect organisational dynamics and outcomes, like productivity and morale, but are such relationships always unhealthy for the organisation?

First of all, perhaps it’s worth mentioning that it’s no wonder that co-worker romances happen. When people have similar levels of education, interests and values (which perhaps explains why they work for the same organisation,) it should be no surprise that their ‘common ground’ brings them together. Secondly, we should acknowledge the impact of spending long periods of time in proximity to those with whom they have the shared personal histories and experiences.

So are there any benefits? Yes. A good healthy relationship may boost the couple’s morale, energy and enthusiasm, which may have a positive domino affect on those they work with.  It’s also worth bearing in mind Gallup’s finding that people who have a best friend at work, are seven times as likely to be engaged in their job; and Shawn Achor’s research that suggests that people who receive and give social support at work have greater success and happiness.

We won’t try and play cupid, but if you need advice on how to develop positive working relationships, contact gill@unisonmedia.co.uk

Sources:

http://www.personneltoday.com/articles/2012/02/14/58341/employers-frown-on-workplace-relationships-says-survey.html 

http://adrianfurnham.com/featured-articles/43-workplace-romantic-relationships 

http://gmj.gallup.com/content/24754/vital-friends-book-center.aspx

http://blogs.hbr.org/cs/2011/07/what_giving_gets_you_at_the_of.html