Why do some employers not have a fraternization policy?
Many employers avoid a fraternization policy (also referred to as a dating policy, workplace romance policy, or a non-fraternization policy) because they believe an employee’s private life should be kept private. Here’s the problem with this notion.
Who is responsible for reporting a fraternization relationship?
If the employer institutes reporting obligations with respect to close personal relationships, those obligations should be placed on the supervisor or more senior employee in the relationship, to mitigate against the inherent power imbalances. Depending on the specific circumstances of the employer]
Who is Susan Heathfield and what is fraternization policy?
Susan Heathfield is an HR and management consultant with an MS degree. She has covered HR for The Balance Careers since 2000. The dating or fraternization policy adopted by an organization reflects the culture of the organization.
What’s the best way to deal with fraternization?
Example of a possible solution is to consult with and transfer an employee to a different division, without loss of benefits or compensation. When two employees are in a relationship with one another, they should behave appropriately in the workplace. We define unacceptable behavior as any action that:
What do you need to know about the fraternization policy?
Our Fraternization policy outlines our guidelines on employees forming personal relationships with each other. We don’t want to place undue restrictions on employees dating colleagues, as we acknowledge that freedom of choosing one’s partner is an individual’s right.
Is it against the law to fraternize with a manager?
Additionally, any fraternization is prohibited with any employee who reports to the manager or whose terms and conditions of employment—such as pay raises, promotions, and advancement—are potentially affected by the manager.
Susan Heathfield is an HR and management consultant with an MS degree. She has covered HR for The Balance Careers since 2000. The dating or fraternization policy adopted by an organization reflects the culture of the organization.
How does fraternization affect the mood in the workplace?
Friendships and romances can also affect the workplace positively, adding to the sense of teamwork and camaraderie. But, relationships can also go awry and result in friction and conflict at work. This can affect the team, the department, and even the mood of the organization when stress permeates the air.