Sex and workplace? Five dangers of hooking up at work and how to handle college booty calls

Have you ever been undoubtedly attracted to a co-worker? Have you ever wondered if it’s okay to have sex or flirt with a coworker? Have you ever had too many at an office party and went home with a client or coworker? Do you know someone else who has? Then this article may be for you!

Most companies have strict policies on labor relations and support employees who have professional relationships that do not include sexual relations due to legal problems and due to possible loss of productivity or employees due to rumors and drama.

Although it can be very tempting to act on your desire or impulse, here are some tips to keep in mind if you want to enjoy your work relationships and stay out of trouble at work.

These are some of the dangers of sex in the workplace.

Hazard n. 1: “Happy Hour Connections.” Co-workers sometimes go out for drinks together after work. While it’s okay to socialize, some people drink too much and end up going home with someone from work. The risk of this includes losing your job or your credibility with your co-workers.

Hazard n. # 2: “Sleeping Through” If you become sexually involved with bosses or people who report to you, you can file a sexual harassment lawsuit against you, lose your job, or be forced to resign.

Hazard n. 3: “The hot air balloon ride.” Gossip floats into offices as people share “hot air” with the latest juicy news. People feed on the news and that makes you look bad. If you are teaming up or attempting a promotion, it can be a deal breaker.

Hazard n. 4: “The morning after sadness.” Remember, the person you relate to is the person you have to see at the office. This can be uncomfortable for a long time, if not permanently, while both of you are working there.

Danger # 5: Avoid flirting by making sexual comments or jokes with co-workers. You can be sued for harassment. Also, it makes others uncomfortable and is not polite. If others are flirting or making comments, ask them to stop. If they don’t stop, you can report them to a supervisor or the human resources department.

Now that you know the dangers, you can now decide if the collegiate loot call is worth the risk of answering. One of my coaching clients was forced to leave a lengthy contract because he had a sexual relationship with someone at the company who then turned against them and sabotaged his reputation and ability to do business with that company.

So what is an alternative? If you’re single and looking for a connection, why not play in someone else’s playpen? You can go out or pick up someone other than your co-worker. That way, you can have an untethered encounter, if that’s what you’re looking for.

I hope these tips for success are helpful in promoting your health and happiness while on and off the clock.