Those were the days when workplace interactions were strictly professional, and colleagues were respected for their dedication and commitment. Today, however, office corridors are not just places for meetings and deadlines—they are also spaces where relationships can blossom. A recent international survey reveals that India ranks second globally for adults admitting to dating or having dated a coworker, showing that workplace romances have become a significant part of modern office life.
The study, conducted by Ashley Madison in collaboration with YouGov, surveyed 13,581 adults across 11 countries: Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, Spain, Switzerland, the UK, and the US. Mexico topped the list, but India closely follows, highlighting that office romances are more common than many might expect.
According to the findings, 40% of Indians have either dated or are currently dating a colleague. In comparison, 43% of Mexicans reported the same, while countries such as the US, UK, and Canada reported only 30% of adults involved in workplace romances.
Gender differences are also evident. Men are more likely to date a coworker, with 51% reporting experience of office romance, compared to 36% of women. Women appear to be slightly more cautious about professional consequences, with 29% concerned about career impact, versus 27% of men. Conversely, men worry more about personal fallout, with 30% citing it as a deterrent compared to 26% of women.
The study also revealed generational differences. Younger employees aged 18 to 24 are the most cautious, with 34% expressing concern over how workplace romances could influence their career trajectory.
India’s high ranking in workplace relationships aligns with a broader shift in societal attitudes toward non-traditional relationships. A separate survey by Gleeden, a dating platform for extramarital affairs, found that 35% of Indians are currently in an open relationship, and 41% would consider one if suggested by their partner. This trend is not confined to metropolitan cities; smaller towns are showing similar openness. Kanchipuram, for example, ranks highest in India for interest in extramarital affairs.
Source – https://www.mypunepulse.com/workplace-romances-surge-as-india-secures-2nd-rank-globally/