Love is a Disrupter: Navigating Workplace Romance

Project deadlines, work responsibilities, and commitments are all part of our daily jobs, but office romance can sometimes disrupt the focus needed to meet those expectations. Given how much time we spend at work, it’s no surprise that office romances happen. Knowing how to navigate these situations and being prepared when Cupid strikes can help prevent unnecessary heartaches and workplace challenges.

Compliant Policies

CEA recommends having a Dating in the Workplace policy that directs employees to notify their supervisor when a relationship begins and reminds them to conduct themselves in a professional manner during and after a relationship. Should the consensual relationship end, it directs employees on how to behave and where to report incidents that make them uncomfortable.

Did you know that the Civil Rights Department (CRD) requires employers to have a compliant harassment prevention policy? This policy reviews many important areas such as unacceptable behavior, gives examples of abusive conduct, addresses protected classes, and directs employees on how to report incidents that make them uncomfortable. CEA Members can access your policy on the HR Forms page.

Poster Requirement

The CRD also publishes and requires employers to post an anti-harassment poster in a conspicuous place where employees gather. The poster includes websites and phone numbers to report harassment outside of your company. Visit the CEA store to purchase your poster.

Training Requirement

In California, the Fair Employment Housing Act (FEHA) requires employers to provide one (1) hour of training for employees and two (2) hour of training for managers every two years. New employees should receive their training within six months of being hired. Having this compliance requirement in check will remind employees about acceptable behavior both in and out of work. It will also help train your managers on spotting problems or concerns and addressing them timely.

Prevention

As required by law, employers must take steps to prevent harassment from occurring in the workplace and take immediate action to correct it when it occurs. Training, policies, posters, and open-door policies are all great ways to show prevention. In addition, CEA recommends frequently checking in with employees, having an anonymous Employee Action Hotline, and having conduct policies in place.

While we all hope for workplace romances to remain positive and drama-free, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. If you need assistance with employee surveys, an Employee Action Hotline, crafting a policy, or even a comprehensive CA complaint handbook template, don’t hesitate to reach out to CEA.