Is Flirting Allowed
The practice of flirting may not be appropriate in the workplace. However, there are different levels of flirting, and most people recognize behavior ranging from eye batting and giggles to touching and massaging as all belonging to the category of flirting.So what is acceptable and what might not be?Unfortunately the answer to that question is where the danger of flirting at work really lies. Because the answer is different for different people, where that line is drawn can sometimes be difficult to decide.
In most cases today, there are rules against sexual harassment in the workplace. But in order to enforce those rules someone has to report that harassment. In some instances employers have ‘love’ contracts or ‘antifraternization’ contracts that are meant to stop flirting, dating, marriage or any other relationship in the workplace. Some state courts are still trying to decide if these rules violate privacy rights of the individuals when the relationships are kept outside of the office environment.In most cases flirting is harmless and doesn’t lead to a relationship outside the office. In fact some find it energizing and invigorating to have a workplace ‘boyfriend’ or ‘girlfriend’ who makes working more interesting and fun.
The relationship may cross the boundaries of emotional cheating but to those who are involved they can become captivated by the emotionally charged atmosphere when they are around their work friend.Although this flirting may be harmless to those involved it can also offend others in the office. If you find yourself in a position of being embarrassed or offended by the behavior of your office mates there are several things that can be done to help the situation. If you feel comfortable talking with the people involved that would be the place to start.Approach them privately and explain that you are uncomfortable with the behavior. Be specific about what upsets you and how it makes you feel. Be polite and ask them to stop.
Finally ask them to verbally acknowledge what you were talking about so you know they understand.Sometimes by simply voicing your concerns and talking to your colleagues is enough to stop the behavior. Of course, if either are married or engaged then the situation can be even more complex. In any case, when you confront people directly it’s important not to be judgmental. Remember that you catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar. Treat your office mates nicely and you’re more likely to get what you want.The next option is to take the complaint to your boss. Employees who choose to take this route should put together a list of chronological events of the incidents to document the pattern of behavior.
Give as much detail as possible so they have more information to use when they investigate it themselves. And be prepared for some backlash in the office. No matter how much the behavior is insulting or offending the results of going to the boss can be worse.Flirting and dating online helps you to avoid all of these problems and concerns that plague people who use the office space as their personal stable of potential dating partners. And if flirting at work or during the day is a must, then the occasional phone call with your friend during your breaks will do the trick to help energize your day.
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