Rules for Romance in the Workplace
Employers must be careful how workplace romances and breakups are handled and have policies in place to avoid lawsuits, says UAB assistant professor of management Susan Key, Ph.D.
"There is a danger, that after a breakup, there may be a real or perceived violation of Title VII based on gender discrimination or harassment. This is why superiors should never have a romantic or sexual relationship with their subordinates. That alone is almost a per se violation of Title VII."
Key advises employers to have clear rules about workplace romances. Employees should know the rules and the employer should follow them in all cases. Otherwise, she says, the rules become meaningless and employees can feel unjustly treated.
Contact Jennifer Park, Media Relations, 205-934-3888 or [email protected].
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