Almost a quarter (24%) of employees between the ages of 25 and 34-years-old have had a long-term relationship with a colleague, new research has found. This compared to just 12% for over 65s.
But, aside from office relationships, Viking’s study, which polled 2,000 UK office workers, found that sex between colleagues has become increasingly common.
29% of 25 to 34-year-olds said they have had a one-night stand with someone at work, with just 12% of over 65s saying the same.
The research revealed that with workplace romances on the rise, more and more employers are rolling out policies educating employees on the dos and don’ts.
Workplace romance policies
Communicating these internal office romance policies will help stimmy potential conflicts from arising.
44% of 25 to 34-year-olds said they are aware of their employer’s policy regarding relationships at work, this is compared to just 17% of over 65s, with 60% saying their employer doesn’t have one.
According to the research, 37% of employees said that workplace relationships had decreased their productivity, while 21% believed that it increased stress.
Martine Robins, Director at The HR Dept, explained that clear policies around workplace relationships are crucial.
She explained: “Whether it’s a ‘romance policy’ or some other term, clearly stating the importance of being transparent. Particularly if there is likely to be a conflict of interest or a perception of favouritism.
“The effects of trying to deal with such a situation once it is in motion makes it very difficult for all concerned,” she added.
Earlier this year, HR Grapevine reported on the sacking of McDonald's CEO, Steve Easterbook, who was outsted for violating company policy after he had a consensual relationship with a colleague.
