I’m in an office romance – how do we stop the gossip?

Dear Aunty B,

I have started dating one of my work colleagues. I’m thrilled, he’s wonderful and we have a lot of fun together. But he’s nervous about people at work finding out, so he won’t let us have any photos taken together at parties in case they end up on Facebook, let alone be seen having lunch together or even talking in the office.

There is no specific workplace policy on dating and I’ve tried to tell him it would be easier if we just told people, but he’s not listening. How can I convince him there’s nothing to worry about?

Sincerely,

Lovestruck, Surry Hills

Dear Lovestruck,

Ah young love, such a wonderful thing. But in this case I completely understand your new partner’s concerns. Office romances can be complicated.

Unfortunately, it sounds like your romance may already be impacting your working relationship if he’s not even letting the two of you communicate in the office. I daresay he’s probably heard some horror stories about workplace relationships and he’s probably equally nervous about rumours spreading around the office.

My best piece of advice is to talk to him. Find out what his main concerns are and then work out a plan. If he’s worried about what will happen if the two of you don’t work out, work out how you’ll manage the work environment if you break up.

If he’s concerned about office gossip, tell him it’s better to be upfront with your colleagues rather than let rumours spread. Good luck!

Be Smart,

Aunty B