Dealing with Romance in the Workplace The discussion about romance in the workplace is different now in light of the #MeToo movement and the related sexual harassment claims. A bigger issue will be consensual relationships versus coerced activity. Previously, allegations of harassment were met with skepticism; this is no longer the case.116

For many employees, their social networks are intertwined with their workplace. They meet many of their friends at work and, in some cases, those relationships become something more.

The law concerning workplace relationships continues to evolve, as do societal norms. Any relationship, whether physical or a close friendship, leads to issues that employers and employees need to be aware of. For transparency and everyone's protection, clear policies need to be established and communicated; employee training should occur; and allegations or suspicions of harassment must be taken seriously.

"Workplace culture needs to be carefully construed to promote respect and equality among colleagues," said Lew Bayer, a civility expert in Winnipeg. "When developed properly, trust is established naturally. Safe social environments, such as an employee lunchroom, are also created where innocuous comments are not perceived as sexist," she said.118

Some relationships will always be a problem due to conflict of interest and imbalance of power. Any relationship between supervisor and subordinate leads to actual or perceived favouritism and poor morale. It might even lead to performance issues between the two employees in the relationship. Even if the relationship started consensually, it can turn into harassment.

Nina Cole, an organizational behaviour expert from Ryerson University, conducted a study investigating co-worker perceptions about office romance. "The latest generation to enter the workforce is quite matter of fact about this sort of thing," she indicates. "They don't think it's a big deal at all."119 Studies have shown some perks associated with office romances: more engaged and happier employees as well as a corporate culture that attracts and retains staff. Other benefits include higher job satisfaction and fewer sick days. Happy couples working together are more likely to stay later, be more creative, and have less personality conflicts with other members of the team.120 Powerful results.

Questions 1-Should employers ban relationships in the workplace?

2-A positive of the #MeToo movement is that people are less afraid to come forward with concerns about harassment. What other positive and negative implications are there?