Minimising damage from work place affair

[PiMCA]

I've started seeing a colleague and I'm really worried it's going to affect my career.

He's a massive loose cannon. He does what he likes, when he likes, I'd HATE to manage him! Admittedly, he is good at his job, but he's also lazy. Nobody seems to do anything about it but I'm worried I'll get tarnished by his actions.

Management now know were seeing each other so I can't do much about it but any tips on minimising the professional damage?

End it now and find someone less volatile

If he is a massive loose cannon then expect to be fired some time fairly soon. Not necessarily from your job.

How will you feel about working alongside him if the relationship doesn't work out? Or having colleagues questioning your judgement? I know of two couples who started a work affair. In both cases one member of the couple had to quit their job due to the fallout when the affairs soured. And be aware that if that happens to you, you will be relying on the managers who know for a reference.

Oh love, I get the worry but honestly the best thing you can do is keep being brilliant at your job and let your work speak for itself. Don't cover for him, don't make excuses for him, and keep clear boundaries between his performance and yours. If anyone ever mentions his behaviour to you, a simple "that's for his manager to deal with, nothing to do with me" shuts it down. Make sure your own reputation stays spotless, be reliable, professional, and don't get dragged into gossip about him. People will judge you on you, not on who you're dating, as long as you keep those lines clear. And maybe have a quiet word with him about not making your life harder at work, if he cares about you he'll hear it.