How to Handle Potential Workplace Affairs Involving Your Partner and Their Boss

We’ve all heard the horror stories.

The workplace “friendships” that start with a little too much “friendly advice” and end up with a side-eye-worthy level of familiarity.

And while it’s normal to feel protective of your partner, especially when their professional relationships start to get a little... personal, what happens when it crosses a line?

Is it harmless fun?

Or are there workplace affairs signs pointing to something more?

Let’s dive in.

The Situation: Is This Just a Compliment or Is It Crossing Boundaries?

You’re sitting there, minding your own business, when your partner mentions that her boss (who, by the way, is a male) has been lavishing her with compliments.

Not just the casual “Hey, nice suit,” but “You’re amazing,” and “I don’t know what I’d do without you!”

And to top it off, he’s now taking a personal interest in her wardrobe—so much so that he’s made changes to his own dress code based on her suggestions.

Oh, and it doesn’t stop there.

The company event your partner planned?

A resounding success.

To show his appreciation, her boss hands her a gift card to a fancy spa for a back massage.

A personal gift. Hmmm... is that just the boss being generous, or is he stepping into murky waters?

We’re not talking about a polite “good job” or a “you’re great at what you do” here.

This is starting to feel a little... personal.

Now, let’s be clear: there’s a world of difference between a boss who genuinely appreciates their employee and one who might be taking things a little too far.

So, what should you do if you’re feeling concerned?