The Tribune

By IAN FERGUSON

SEX in the workplace could certainly be an uncomfortable conversation for some, but as we look the world over, it is clearly a topic of dialogue that we must meaningfully engage in, as it impacts so many. Poor judgment involving sex and sensuality in professional settings has resulted in the loss of revenue, lack of productivity and efficiency, and lower ethical standards for many organisations. Most companies in fact make an attempt to enforce strict policies to govern employee sexual behaviour, with dire consequences for those who refuse to adhere to these guidelines.

I sat having lunch at Arawak Cay one day last week with a colleague, and overheard an animated and graphic conversation between co-workers at a popular restaurant on the strip. The young man had a number of the young ladies engaged, captivated even, regarding his sexual prowess, convincing them (quite persuasively) of his great ability to perform acts on them that would result in them leaving their boyfriends. While this was a very light moment shared between employees who were obviously on break, it became very clear to me how very dangerous sex in the workplace could be. One suave young man wooing five or six vulnerable (even older, possibly sex starved) women could stir quite a hot pot of confusion.

There are others who argue that in a population pool as small as the Bahamas, it is next to impossible to ignore or refuse the advances, or the propositioning of persons, at the workplace for a little bit of romance. They cite cases of longstanding relationships, and even successful marriages, that have come as a result of workplace fun and frolic. Love has no boundaries, they continue. You cannot control who you fall in love with. If that person happens to be your supervisor and they are a willing participant, then cupid has worked in your favour. US research indicates that nearly 50 per cent of employees have dated someone at work during the course of their corporate lives. Some organisations welcome these assertions and realities, making accommodations for transfer into other units those who have fallen in love within departments.

By the same token, there are many others who have experienced first-hand the dangers of office romance. They have seen a woman’s scorn at its best, and a man’s rage stemming from the fire in his loins. Further to this, we broaden our conversation to include employees of organisations establishing love relationships with outside clients, the obvious conflict and possible end result being loss of the client, poor reputation, loss in revenue and perhaps loss of job, if and when the relationship goes ‘south’. Our dialogue today drives us, then, to ask these questions: How much of a danger is the love bug to workplace productivity, and what can organisations do to safeguard themselves and their employees from these dangers?

Since we are known to be very sensual people, and passionate about our love interests, it is never advised that we pursue office romances. It is true; things happen, but only because we allow or even make them happen. Here are three basic tips to avoid the dangers of sex in the workplace.

1. Know the rules. Gain a good understanding of what your company expects regarding office romance. If there seems to be some ambiguity around this topic, seek clarity.

2. Remain professional. There are many advances that will come your way at work (particularly if you are attractive and/or have a warm personality). Remind yourself and others of the business environment that you are in as tactfully as you can.

3. Think before you speak. Most times we entangle ourselves because of the words, tone and body language we use. You cannot control the feelings and actions of others, but you have full control over your own conversation, attitude, behaviours and actions.