Asking someone out can be nerve-wracking. It takes a lot of courage. Asking out someone you work with can be even harder. If you’re rejected you still have to see that person all the time. There are a few ways to get around this and still be comfortable in your work life. Here are 3 great tips.

1^st Tip- Start Talking

You want to be able to strike up a conversation with the person you want to ask out. If you’ve never talked to them before you don’t want to jump in and just ask them out. Instead, find ways you can start a conversation. It’s much easier to ask someone out if you’ve gotten to know them. It’s also easier for them to say yes.

2^nd Tip- Keep It Light

It will be a lot less aggressive to ask someone out for a cup of coffee over a full-fledged date. Consider asking the coworker out for coffee or tea for lunch before you jump in and ask them on a date. This way you can get a better idea if you guys will mesh well when you finally do ask them out. You’ll also be able to gauge the situation better to see if you stand a chance. At the end of the coffee or lunch date if you don’t feel good about it, let it go.

3^rd Tip- Keep It Out of the Office

Once you do ask them out you want to make sure that you keep your professional and private relationship completely separate. This way if it goes south you can still maintain a good working relationship.