Should you ever hook up on a work trip?

Work trips are often a blend of professional networking and social engagement - a unique environment that can lead to unexpected personal connections. While the idea of hooking up with someone you met at a conference may seem appealing, you need to weigh the implications and potential consequences involved. Here are some things to think about before you take the leap.

Remember where you are

Work conferences are not just social gatherings; they are professional events where individuals represent their companies. While you might be off the clock during downtime, it’s crucial to remember that your actions can still reflect on your employer.

And depending on the employment legislation in your country, your employer may have the right to deal with any behavior that breaches their code of conduct in a disciplinary process, even if you aren’t at work. Engaging in casual relationships with colleagues or clients can blur the lines between personal and professional conduct.

Consider the environment: Are you attending a formal conference with clients present, or is it more of a casual networking event? There’s always a chance of running into someone who might judge your choices, which can lead to gossip or affect your reputation at work.

What’s your company policy?

Most workplaces have guidelines regarding relationships between employees. Before pursuing any romantic entanglements at a conference, familiarize yourself with your company’s policy on workplace relationships. Some companies may require you to disclose any romantic relationships that could lead to conflicts of interest, especially if one party holds a supervisory role over the other.

If you’re considering bringing someone back to your hotel room - whether it’s a colleague or a stranger you met through a dating app in a city far from home - ensure that it aligns with your company’s standards, you act responsibly and with safety being at the forefront of your mind, and also consider any company policy that is applicable.

If you have a wild night in your hotel room and it ends up being trashed, that is not going to go down well and is not a situation that anyone will enjoy dealing with. You might not face immediate repercussions for casual encounters, but any fallout could lead to uncomfortable conversations with HR (and believe me, we want to avoid those uncomfortable conversations just as much as you do!).

And booking a sex worker on the company credit card? Don’t even think about it.

What would happen if other people saw you?

Even if both parties are single, engaging in a hookup at a work conference can invite unwanted gossip. Colleagues often share stories about their conference experiences, and what starts as a casual encounter could quickly become a topic of discussion among peers. Be prepared for the ramifications of your actions, especially if your workplace is one where gossip thrives.

If you’re considering hooking up with someone from your own organization, think about how that could impact your work environment. Will it create tension if things don’t go as planned? Will others view it as inappropriate or unprofessional? Understanding the dynamics of your workplace can help you make a more informed decision.

Drinking is not conducive to good decision-making

Conferences often involve social events with alcohol, which can impair judgment. Many people feel that a “work trip” atmosphere provides a license to engage in behaviors they might not consider at home. While a few drinks can ease the tension and lead to spontaneous connections, they can also lead to regrets of the “What was I thinking, hooking up with my coworker?” nature. Be mindful of how much you consume and the context of your interactions. What may seem harmless in the moment can have lasting consequences, especially if you find yourself in a compromising situation.

The fine line of consent

If you decide to pursue a connection, ensure that both parties are on the same page regarding intentions. Misunderstandings can occur, especially in a work setting where power dynamics may complicate things. Consent is crucial; make sure that both you and your partner feel comfortable and respected throughout the encounter.

And what happens next year?

We’ve all heard of saying like, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas” - and its broader misuse to apply to just about any locale and situation. If you’ve had a hookup at a conference and then gone home to your “real life”, what will it be like next year, if you run into the same person? What if there’s an expectation on their side and you don’t want to reciprocate? What if you’re the one who wants to hang out again but the other person blanks you?

Make sure everyone is on the same page regarding expectations - and how you’ll interact going forward. Hooking up at a work conference can be a tempting idea, but it comes with a host of “what ifs” you should think about before you go for it. Ultimately, you may decide it’s more trouble than it’s worth, but whatever choice you make, try to keep professionalism at the forefront - it’s a good fallback if you have any doubts!