Workplace Challenges
Navigating the nuances of workplace relationshipsRelationships outside the workplace can be anything you want them to be, because they're your business. But relationships within the workplace are a whole other ball game, because they affect the organization's business. ELLEN GOLDHAR |
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 [ 2002-09-18 ] |
People are the essence of any company and how people get along, or don't, can significantly impact an organization.
Work relationships influence things like productivity, company morale and absenteeism. How you interact with co-workers can mean the difference between a promotion or demotion, a good day or a bad day, or feeling appreciated or taken for granted.
So, it's no wonder I get asked a lot of questions about workplace relationships.
Here are a couple of questions I was recently asked:
Q: What if you're a manager and are attracted to a subordinate -- is it okay to date them?
A: I am reminded of something Trudy Eagan, Sun Media's recently retired CAO, once said about workplace romances: "Generally, in life you don't want to look back and regret the things you didn't do, but when it comes to office romance, be careful, you might look back and regret the things that you did do!"
Although there are many stories of people meeting their true love at work, be alert -- you are treading on thin ice. The potential pitfalls of office dating can be very serious, so enter with eyes wide open.
Firstly, consider professing your affections toward a colleague and then finding out they don't share the same feelings -- ouch! And worse than being rejected is being rejected by someone you will have to see every day (let's hope they don't blab it either).
However, if things work out and the romance blossoms, watch out for office politics, especially if your new partner has a reporting relationship to you. Others in the company might perceive any of your partner's promotions as being the result of favouritism and unfair, no matter how deserving they are. What's more, co-workers may feel uncomfortable about approaching you with issues that involve your mate.
And, if the relationship crumbles, so might your career. What if your ex claims they dated you because they felt their job was on the line if they didn't, or decides to air your dirty laundry -- it's your word against theirs and things can get ugly.
Some companies have even adopted a no nepotism policy to avoid the potential messes of workplace relationships. It's not that workplace romances are all trouble and can't work -- they can, they just require care, caution and communication!
Q: Recently, my boss, the person who hired me two years ago, retired. Now I report to someone in the organization that was never a fan of my old boss, to say the least. This concerns me. I'm afraid my new manager might be questioning my loyalties and capabilities. What can I do to build a positive relationship with him?
A: First, give yourself and the work you've done some credit. The fact that you have been there for two years suggests you must be doing something right.
Next, make every effort to find opportunities to not only demonstrate your capabilities but your loyalties, too -- loyalties to the job, to the organization and to your new boss.
Keep in mind that it's the neck of your new boss that's on the line -- you can't blame him for wanting a team of people he feels supported by and can trust.
You don't have to go out chumming with him every night, but make a point of spending time with him -- whether it is at a company function, on a joint business call or in a meeting. Make extra effort to show him what you can and are willing to do.
Lastly, be patient -- don't try to force the relationship too much, otherwise he may feel like you are being manipulative. Healthy professional relationships don't develop overnight and earning someone's trust takes time. Remember, you get what you give, so if you want to have his respect you need to give it too!
Do you have you a bad boss?