Corporate Affairs - How the Valentine's day card could be from the boss

They may be the last person youíd expect to send a secret Valentines card, but think againÖ According to TheLadders.co.uk, 68% of bosses have harboured a crush on an employee; however, most refrain from acting upon it with just 17% admitting to having had a relationship with a co-worker.

ìItís hardly surprising that crushes blossom in the office, seeing as we spend so much time at work,î explains Derek Pilcher, Managing Director of Britainís leading management careers site TheLadders.co.uk. ìBut dating the boss can cause all sorts of problems. Itís a career minefield for both parties.î If you think you have found ëthe oneí at work, then Derek Pilcher has these suggestions:

1. Think carefully and move slowly - So you think youíve fallen for a co-worker. Go slowly and think carefully. Is it worth the risk? Starting a relationship with someone you work with has implications.

2. The distance rule - If you have found ëthe oneí at work, then be prepared to be flexible. If your boss feels that a transfer or move to another department is appropriate, donít be surprised or offended. This may not only help your work life but improve the relationship.

3. Be Professional - Most bosses will be pretty tolerant of office relationships as long as the ëpersonal bitsí are kept away from the professional environment so that they do not distract from the work. Itís not professional to be seen kissing in the stationary cupboard or hurling coffee cups at each other! Keep your home life and work life separate.

4. Keep your eye on the job – Instead of making eyes at your new love across the office, keep your mind on your job. Your boss will not be impressed if youíre not meeting your deadlines and targets. Do your job as well or better than you did before.

6. Be discreet – Donít make personal arrangements in front of the boss but do let them see you working well together as part of a team. Remain two separate people at work and above all donít ever practice favouritism.

7. Never gossip – A huge part of office communication and team bonding is sharing your life experiences with your team. However discussing your partnerís sexual prowess with your colleagues is a bad idea!

8. If things turn sour - If your office relationship ends, the boss does not want to witness you bad-mouthing another employee, it will not only damage their reputation but your own as well. Resist revenge and remain polite and civil with your ex.