Relationship Between a Boss and a Subordinate: Private Matter or Corporate Culture Issue?

My client shared a personal workplace issue with me. The problem? It’s a relationship between a boss and a subordinate. The matter has become an open secret, and my client only found out when several people brought it to his attention.

People in the company see it as a cultural issue. When openness and honesty are promoted, there shouldn’t be double standards or blind eyes turned to conflicts of interest.

The problem isn’t just that the manager has direct influence over their partner’s salary and bonuses. They also have access to sensitive information about the rest of the team.

🔥 I’ve encountered such a situation myself and had to address it. Unfortunately, the colleague involved refused to acknowledge the issue, insisting it was a private matter. In the end, this caused the most harm to his partner – strained relationships with colleagues and skepticism about her career progress.

▶️ That’s why I believe the matter needs to be addressed quickly, ideally by transferring either the colleague or their partner to another department.

Have you ever been in a similar situation? And on which side? Love or corporate culture? What advice would you give my client?