Love contracts, also known as Consensual Relationship Agreements, are formalized documents signed by employees involved in a romantic relationship within the workplace. These agreements outline expectations for maintaining professionalism, avoiding conflicts of interest, and ensuring compliance with anti-harassment policies. According to a 2023 survey by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), about 10% of organizations use love contracts as part of their workplace relationship policies. These contracts are particularly effective in mitigating legal risks, such as claims of favoritism, retaliation, or sexual harassment, while promoting transparency and accountability.
While not a legal requirement, love contracts serve as a proactive measure for organizations to address the realities of office romance. By setting clear boundaries and requiring both parties to acknowledge their mutual consent, these agreements reduce workplace disruptions and foster a respectful environment. Employers who implement love contracts often report fewer complaints related to workplace relationships, enhancing overall team dynamics.
Consensual Relationship Agreement
Purpose: This Consensual Relationship Agreement outlines the terms, conditions, and expectations for consensual workplace relationships to ensure that professional boundaries, compliance with company policies, and the integrity of the workplace are maintained.
Employee A: Name: ____________________________ Job Title: ___________________________
Employee B: Name: ____________________________ Job Title: ___________________________
Acknowledgments: By signing below, both parties acknowledge that they have voluntarily and consensually entered into a personal relationship. This Agreement is designed to protect all parties involved and ensure that the relationship does not negatively impact the workplace environment, compliance with company policies, or professional responsibilities.
Terms and Conditions:
1. Voluntary Participation:
- Both parties affirm that the relationship is entirely voluntary and consensual.
- Both employees are free to end the relationship at any time without fear of retaliation or adverse workplace consequences.
2. Workplace Conduct:
- Both parties agree to maintain professionalism and appropriate workplace conduct at all times, including refraining from public displays of affection (PDA) or behavior that may disrupt the work environment.
- Both employees acknowledge that their relationship will not interfere with job performance, team dynamics, or workplace operations.
3. Reporting Changes:
- Both employees agree to promptly notify Human Resources (HR) in writing if the relationship ends to ensure that workplace conduct remains professional.
- Any changes in the reporting structure, supervisory relationships, or job responsibilities that may create conflicts of interest must be disclosed immediately to HR.
4. Supervisory and Evaluation Roles:
If either employee holds a supervisory position over the other, they confirm that:
- They do not influence the other’s performance reviews, compensation, promotions, or disciplinary actions.
- Steps will be taken to reassign supervisory duties if conflicts of interest arise.
5. Policy Compliance:
- Both employees have reviewed and agree to comply with the company’s Anti-Harassment, Discrimination, and Bullying Policy and Employee Handbook.
- Both employees affirm that the relationship does not violate any company policies or procedures, including fraternization policies.
6. Prohibited Behaviors:
- Retaliation, favoritism, or perceived favoritism due to the relationship is strictly prohibited.
- Employees agree to avoid creating an intimidating, hostile, or uncomfortable work environment for coworkers or team members.
7. Confidentiality:
- HR will maintain the confidentiality of this Agreement to the extent possible while ensuring workplace integrity.
8. Legal Consultation:
- Both employees acknowledge that they have had the opportunity to seek legal counsel before signing this Agreement.
9. Termination of Relationship:
- If the relationship ends, both parties agree to:Notify HR promptly in writing.Continue to maintain professional behavior in the workplace.Refrain from engaging in retaliatory or disruptive actions that may impact the work environment.
Dispute Resolution: In the event of disputes arising from this relationship or Agreement, both parties agree to resolve matters through the company’s established complaint resolution process.
Signatures:
Employee A: __________________________ Signature: _____________________________ Date: _________________________________
Employee B: __________________________ Signature: _____________________________ Date: _________________________________
HR Acknowledgment:
Received by HR Representative: ____________________________ Signature: _____________________________ Date: _________________________________
By signing this Agreement, both employees affirm their commitment to upholding the integrity of the workplace and abiding by company policies while engaging in a consensual relationship. Any violation of this Agreement may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
Navigating workplace relationships doesn’t have to feel like walking on eggshells. Love contracts provide a clear framework that helps employees maintain their personal connections while respecting professional boundaries. By addressing the realities of office romance head-on, organizations can foster a culture of trust, accountability, and mutual respect. So, whether Cupid’s arrows have struck or you’re preparing for the possibility, having a plan in place ensures that your workplace remains a harmonious and productive environment.
Elga Lejarza
Founder & CEO
HRTrainingClasses.com
HRDevelop.com
Lejarza HR Consulting