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The workplace has long been a setting for connection—and sometimes romance. In Canada, these relationships are far from rare.

A of 885 employees found that one in three have been romantically involved with a colleague. Younger workers aged 18 to 34 were especially likely to report such relationships (41%).

Similar patterns emerge in the and , where surveys have found that 18% of partnered respondents (those married, living with a partner or in a committed relationship) met their significant other at work.

It's no surprise. We spend much of our waking lives with colleagues, . At a time when , the office can feel like a .

Workplace relationships can contribute to a . Most notably, they are linked to .

However, workplace relationships can also create , which is why knowing how to handle them is key.

When work and love mix

Workplace romance refers to that both parties recognize as more than strictly professional.

These relationships can include dating, extramarital affairs, casual hook-ups, flings or arrangements.

While many romances have minimal impact, some erode organizational trust by creating , especially when they involve a power imbalance.

When trust is undermined, that collaboration suffers, morale declines and workplace culture deteriorates. This is why organizations often have policies surrounding workplace romances.

The risks of workplace romance

In Canada, , and most countries similarly don't have laws governing workplace relationships.

However, Canada does have legal frameworks that require employers to maintain a safe, respectful workplace. These include , provincial human rights codes, and occupational health and safety legislation.

To meet these obligations, many organizations implement policies that prohibit supervisor-subordinate relationships or require disclosure.

These policies exist for good reason: , increase the risk of sharing confidential information inappropriately, allow personal feelings to influence decisions, or create situations where one partner feels pressured to act in ways that conflict with organizational policies or ethical standards.

For individuals, the risks can also be just as real. While some workplace romances lead to enduring partnerships——others can end less happily.

Failed relationships can leave both people vulnerable to and, in the worst cases, allegations of harassment .

These concerns are underscored by the prevalence of misconduct. According to a report, almost half of women and nearly one-third of men say they have experienced inappropriate sexualized behavior at work.

Why some couples keep it quiet

Many employees choose not to disclose their workplace relationships. According to the , nearly half (45%) of those in workplace relationships kept it secret from someone at work, most often management or human resources.

Similarly, a from the Society for Human Resource Management across a variety of ages, industries and job levels found that 82% of workers who had been in a workplace romance kept it secret from their employer.

Reasons for secrecy range from to concerns about .

This lack of disclosure means employers may be unaware of relationships and therefore if conflicts, ethical concerns or allegations arise.

Making love work in the workplace

If you find yourself navigating romance at work, here are five steps to protect both your relationship and your career:

1. Reflect on your motivations. Ask yourself why you want to pursue the relationship and whether it . Consider how it might affect your career, the people you work with and the overall workplace culture. This kind of honest self-check can .
2. Know the rules. Review your organization's policy on workplace romance. , many employers require disclosure or limit relationships within reporting lines. Understanding these rules early can help you avoid misunderstandings or career surprises.
3. Be transparent. If disclosure is required, share the news directly with your manager or human resources, rather than letting it spread through gossip. Research shows that .
4. Manage perceptions and set boundaries. Even if your relationship doesn't affect your work, others may see it differently. Agree with your partner on boundaries, and commit to upholding .
5. Think long-term. Relationships can change. how you'll handle working together if it ends, and consider how it might shape beyond your current role.

Handled well, these steps won't just protect your career but also help your relationship stand on solid ground.

Falling for someone at work can be both exciting and rewarding. With mindfulness, open communication and respect for professional boundaries, it can become a story you cherish and proof that romance and professionalism can flourish together.

This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .