Could a relationship with a junior coworker lead to issues at work?

I’m a VP at my job and sometimes hang out after hours with a junior coworker from a different department. She doesn’t report to me, but if we end up spending the night together during a work trip, could I get in trouble if my employer finds out? Also, could she report it later, even if it was mutual?

Honestly, lots of companies are strict with these things. Even if there’s no direct reporting, relationships like this can be tricky.

Marlowe said:
Honestly, lots of companies are strict with these things. Even if there’s no direct reporting, relationships like this can be tricky.

Exactly. Sometimes they’ll see it as a potential conflict, even if you’re in different departments.

Marlowe said:
Honestly, lots of companies are strict with these things. Even if there’s no direct reporting, relationships like this can be tricky.

True, companies can have a strong stance on these things, especially if someone’s in a senior role.

Any specific rules where you work? Some companies are more chill, but others are super strict.

Victor said:
Any specific rules where you work? Some companies are more chill, but others are super strict.

OP mentioned there’s no clear policy. But even so, it might raise eyebrows if someone finds out.

Victor said:
Any specific rules where you work? Some companies are more chill, but others are super strict.

Yeah, they might see it as unprofessional, even without a strict policy.

I’d be cautious. Even if things are friendly now, situations like this can get complicated later on.

Mai said:
I’d be cautious. Even if things are friendly now, situations like this can get complicated later on.

Exactly, sometimes people feel fine until something changes, and then it can go downhill.

Mai said:
I’d be cautious. Even if things are friendly now, situations like this can get complicated later on.

Yep, if anything goes south, it might become an issue for either party.

Have you thought about casually asking HR about their stance on this stuff? Without being too obvious, of course.

Juno said:
Have you thought about casually asking HR about their stance on this stuff? Without being too obvious, of course.

I haven’t asked HR. I worry it might look suspicious if I bring it up.

Juno said:
Have you thought about casually asking HR about their stance on this stuff? Without being too obvious, of course.

True, sometimes asking too much can get unwanted attention. Maybe just feel things out carefully.

Just a heads-up: some companies don’t care if it’s mutual. They just want to avoid any potential fallout.

Jay said:
Just a heads-up: some companies don’t care if it’s mutual. They just want to avoid any potential fallout.

Yep, they might worry about any ‘what ifs’ even if it’s all above board.

Jay said:
Just a heads-up: some companies don’t care if it’s mutual. They just want to avoid any potential fallout.

Exactly. A lot of places just want to stay clear of any drama.