By Colleen Sabatino, The Intern Coach
Office romances at your internship are a no-no—unless you want to endanger that employee’s career future, and you’re not concerned about your own future with this company. Many companies restrict office romances because they feel such a relationship distracts a productive employee from concentrating on his/her job. Here’s how to avoid such negative scenarios:
- Remain neutral. Don’t show any romantic inclinations in the office or play favorites with your co-workers.
- Refrain from sending notes to the object of your affection or from calling him/her on your cell phone during office hours. Your co-workers will catch on even if you think you’re being discreet.
- Avoid secret meetings outside the office. Someone will inevitably see you and report back to the office, and the gossip will start. Also, you’ll get a reputation for being sly or underhanded, which won’t help your internship be a success.
- Be patient. Wait until after you’ve completed your internship to develop a relationship with one of your former co-workers. Keep in mind that if you intend to turn your internship into a permanent job, you might have to find a romantic interest elsewhere or choose a different company.