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5 tips to ask your coworker out (without getting fired)

Memos and meetings are hardly the ingredients for an epic novel, yet love often begins in the workplace, and many of those relationships eventually lead to marriage. Read here how you can turn your relationship with your colleague into something more, while protecting your career.

Don't focus on the physical: Unfortunately, the line between asking out a coworker and sexual harassment is quite thin, and even well-intentioned invitations can often be viewed the wrong way. To make sure nothing is misinterpreted, keep your focus away from anything physical. For example, instead of saying, "I think you're beautiful/pretty/sexy and would love to go out with you," instead say, "I think you're really interesting, and I'd like the chance to get to know you better." .” Not only will this help prevent allegations of sexual harassment, but your loved one will likely be more flattered if you compliment their personality rather than their appearance.

Start with groups: Suggesting a group outing with some colleagues will help keep the pressure down and give you and your loved one a more organic way to get to know each other. And if you're afraid of being rejected from someone you have to see every day, this is a good way to ask them out without actually asking them out.

Know the company's policy: Many companies have rules about not dating subordinates, disclosing serious relationships, and not showing affection in the workplace. Chances are you were given some sort of handbook or code of conduct when you were hired. Now is a good time to read the chapter on office relationships so you know what to do before things get serious with your crush.

Don't date your boss: It's easy to develop a crush on your immediate supervisor, especially if you admire their work. But unless you value your potential relationship above your entire career, it's probably best to keep your crush a secret. Most companies don't think this is possible, and any achievement (or setback) at work will be questioned by whether you've really earned it.

Avoid alcohol: Alcohol and other judgment-inhibiting substances can help you loosen up and have fun on a first date, but they can also cause you to say or do things you might regret later, and that regret can be multiplied tenfold when a coworker finds you. is involved. Until there is a strong degree of trust in the relationship, try to avoid overconsumption.