Sex at the workplace – the tope ten rules

It’s almost an unwritten rule: DON’T have sex with your workmates, and even more importantly – don’t root your boss (unless your boss is a) hot and b) you have significant reason it will further your career! But all jokes aside – it is not advisable to have casual relationships at work. But should you still be determined to get some cubicle nooky with a hottie from work, better follow these rules which might help you keep your job (if not your honor) intact.

A 2006 US study called ‘Love In the Workplace’ says 6% of U.S adults have previously dated a co-worker and 5 of those 6% admitted that relationship made work uncomfortable but 35% admit having fantasized about a co-worker.

1. Know the rules

Before getting hot and frisky with a co-worker, check your company’s employee book. If the rules say no inter-office dating and you want to keep your job, keep your thoughts – and your hands – to yourself!

2. Know your co-worker

It’s advisable to get to know your co-worker before pursuing a romantic relationship. Make sure he/she is single, not one to kiss and tell and most importantly, not related to your boss! News in an office travel fast – you don’t want to become the office gossip.

3. No means no

She/he loves you not? If you ask a co-worker out and she/he says no, that’s it. Game over. Do not pass go. Do not ask again, do not sulk and do not make further references to the encounter, jokes or innuendos. Be careful, the wrong behavior in that department can quickly lead to a sexual harassment charge!

4. Create a workplace prenup

Before moving forward in a relationship, have a candid conversation about what might happen if things go south. Be aware of any potential consequences to your career before starting a relationship and agree on boundaries and expectations.

5. Don’t fish in your boss’s pond

If your new “love bunny” works in the same department as you do, be prepared to change departments or tell your boss.

6. Date up, not down

If you have a choice, it’s always safer dating someone above you. You may get fired, but at least you won’t get slapped with a sexual harassment suit. And on that note…tempting as it may be, stay clear of temps. Contractors, consultants, and interns can all spell trouble, Mr. President. Just because they don't work for your company full-time doesn't mean that the rules of the game are any different when it comes to dating these folks (at least while they're under your roof).

7. Keep your privates private

Don’t gab about your new romance. Love in the workplace becomes dangerous when it’s out in the open for others to scrutinize. No flirting, furtive glances in the elevator or taps on the derriere. People catch on to these cues.

8. Use Hotmail for 'hot' mail

This may seem obvious, but plenty of people disregard it. Never use company email to exchange love notes or anything remotely suggestive. Companies can and do monitor email exchanges. If you must profess your undying affection while at work, use a private web-based email service like Yahoo or Hotmail.

9. Don’t drink and date

We know the work-christams do is dangerous environment when you already have an eye on a co-worker. Be wary of office parties and more than 2 drinks. Too many careers have been killed when people have dropped their guard at an office party.

10. Your Office or Mine? NEITHER.

C’mon people, get a room. Don’t have sex or “sexual relations” in the office. Period.