HUG AT HOME

Keep the intimacy out of the office
Obvious physical flirtation in the office can irritate your colleagues and give the impression that you lack focus on your work. If you are unable to resist brushing up against your loved one, limit it to the odd peck on the cheek.

SERIOUS BUSINESS

Don’t do it unless you mean it
Many people meet their lifetime partners at work, so there is nothing wrong, per se, with courting a colleague. But meaningless flings are generally bad news: remember you have to work with the person after your dalliance is over.

THE TRUTH WORKS

Be honest wherever possible
If you are in a relationship with someone from work, it’s best to be upfront about it. If you aren’t, your colleagues will catch on soon enough, and you don’t want to be the subject of gossip.

YOU BOOZE, YOU LOSE

Don’t make your move at the office party
Alcohol and seasonal bonhomie can act as a capricious aphrodisiac and may affect your judgement. Your festive fling may be fun on 23 December, but your love hangover could last well beyond the new year.

LOST IN TRANSIT

Don’t fall into the travel trap
Business travel can be boring: long stays in faceless hotels, interminable flights and days away from your home comforts. Don’t let boredom catapult you into an unwise romance with your travel partner.

CUT OUT THE MIDDLE MAN

Don’t ask colleagues for relationships tips
Whatever you do, try to avoid involving your workmates in the machinations of your relationship. Asking your colleague for advice after a lover’s tiff can place them in a difficult position when they hear the same lament from your new partner.

Read our full feature on workplace relationships here