One Person, Two Worlds – Responsible Management of Intimacy in the Workplace

Responsible management of intimacy in the workplace is crucial for the well­-being and effectiveness of employees. Intimacy in the workplace is manifested through the process of self-disclosure, which can contribute to establishing trust, cooperation, and even friendship among colleagues. Self-disclosure can prove to be a powerful tool in building strong professional relationships and ensuring a good atmosphere at work. However, inappropriate handling of self-disclosure can also bring about risks with regard to reputation, as well as discriminatory behaviour. Organizations play a crucial role in creating a safe environment for employee self-disclosure. With proper guidelines, education, and by fostering a culture of trust, they can contribute to the effective management of intimacy in the workplace. Additionally, it is important for self-disclosure to occur at the ini­tiative of the individual and in accordance with the hierarchical structure of the organization, and for employees to respect the boundaries between personal and professional life. Effective management of intimacy in the workplace requires a careful balance between the benefits and risks of self-disclosure and creating a supportive environment for building trust and connections among colleagues.