Office Romances Have "Potential Downsides"

Workers need to have their eyes "very wide open" before embarking on an office romance with a colleague, a dating website has warned.

Recent research from Eharmony.co.uk revealed that two-thirds of people have embarked upon a relationship with someone they have worked with.

Sean Cornwell, a spokesman for eHarmony.co.uk, explained that although this figure appears to be high, it is not surprising when the amount of time spent in the workplace is considered.

"My advice to anyone would be to go into it with your eyes very wide open."

"Potential downsides", including rumours, awkwardness, false impression of colleagues and what happens if the relationship ends, all need to be considered by individuals before embarking on an office romance, he added.

What's more, Mr Cornwell went on, those who have begun or who are in a relationship with a colleague need to establish a clear set of boundaries in order to keep their home and work lives separate.

Any issues need to be left in the office to ensure the relationship is kept fresh so couples are given "a reasonable chance of success", he concluded.