First Nonprofit’s HR FAQ of the Month: Should we ban romantic relationships in our workplace?

February 6, 2025

First Nonprofit’s HR FAQ of the Month: Should we ban romantic relationships in our workplace?

You’re certainly welcome to try, but the heart wants what it wants. Bans of this sort are difficult to enforce and can make employees feel like you’re interfering in their personal lives, potentially diminishing trust and driving these relationships “underground.” If you do spot a workplace romance in progress, it’s often best to simply remind employees about your harassment policy and general expectations for workplace conduct. However, we do recommend prohibiting relationships between managers and their direct reports to prevent perceptions of favoritism or harassment, which could create legal and reputational risks for the organization.

If you decide to prohibit all employee dating, be careful when wording your policy. Courts have found that use of the word “fraternize” (in a non-fraternization policy) without additional explanation could potentially discourage employees from exercising their rights under the National Labor Relations Act. Also, employees may not know what that word means. To avoid both lawyers and confusion, you’ll want to use language that specifically refers to employee dating or romantic relationships.

You can learn more about harassment on the platform.

This Q&A is brought to you by Mineral, in partnership with First Nonprofit, and does not constitute legal advice and does not address state or local law. Click here to learn more about First Nonprofit’s HR support

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PORT Health Services has had a great experience with the Unemployment Savings Program offered through First Nonprofit. Throughout the years we have been involved in the program, we have increased our reserve account significantly through this program and find the reporting we receive both timely and useful. We look forward to our continued involvement with this program and our connection with First Nonprofit for many years to come.

PORT Health Services, Greenville, NC

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Family Counseling Center, Gloversville, NY

We’ve saved tens of thousands of dollars PER YEAR by changing to become a reimbursing employer, freeing funds for much needed capital investment. FNP has been a valued partner in this process, providing assurance that we have stopgap coverage for extraordinary claims and keeping claims response painless and simple. It’s a huge Win/Win!

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Women's Choice Network, Pittsburgh, PA

When I first began in my position at my organization, I hadn’t had experience working with a company like FNP. The staff was so patient and helpful in helping to explain the benefits of First Nonprofit. Anytime I reach out with a question I receive a quick, clear, and thorough response. I’m so thankful that we decided to partner with FNP. Their excellence in customer service, coupled with their variety of packages frees us up to truly serve our staff and community with a peace of mind knowing that our organization is protected against unanticipated unemployment insurance expenses.

Homes of Hope, Greenville, SC

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Daniel Kids, Jacksonville, FL

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Chicago Children’s Theatre, Chicago, IL