Spotting an Office Romance: Signs to Watch Out For
Have you ever wondered how to spot an office romance? Workplace relationships have been on the rise since the 1960s when more women entered the workforce. However, recent trends show a decline. In 1990, 20% of people met their long-term partner at work, but by 2009, this figure had dropped to just 10%, with online dating playing a significant role in the shift.
Many employers discourage workplace romances – not because they are against love, but because office relationships can lead to conflicts, HR challenges, and workplace disruptions if they turn sour.
That said, spotting an office romance isn’t always easy. However, certain behaviours can reveal when more than just work is happening between colleagues.
10 Signs of an Office Romance
1. Avoiding Eye Contact
Colleagues who were once friendly become unusually formal. They avoid eye contact and keep interactions strictly professional, sometimes to an exaggerated degree.
2. Leaving Separately
To avoid suspicion, they make a point of leaving the office at different times—even if it means taking longer routes home or waiting around unnecessarily.
3. Synchronised Overtime
When they’re not making separate exits, they always seem to stay late together, arrive early, or take similar breaks.
4. Inside Jokes & Private Conversations
They share private jokes or always discuss the same movies, books, or hobbies, making their interactions seem exclusive.
5. Defensive Behaviour
One fiercely defends the other against even minor criticisms. If someone raises a concern, they may react overly protectively.
6. Coinciding Time Off
Their sick days, holidays, or remote working schedules align a little too perfectly. If questioned, their responses are vague or dismissive.
7. Enhanced Personal Appearance
There’s a noticeable effort in appearance—new clothes, more makeup, or a sudden interest in fitness. Their hobbies may also shift—she’s suddenly into football, and he’s binge-watching romantic comedies.
8. Frequent Closed-Door Meetings
Meetings that used to be open now always take place behind closed doors. Confidential one-on-one discussions become routine.
9. Secretive Carpooling
Despite living in different areas, they’re often seen arriving or leaving together—but never from the office entrance.
10. Declining Work Performance
Their productivity takes a noticeable dip, and colleagues may find themselves picking up the slack. When workplace relationships start affecting team morale, tensions rise.
Why Office Romances Can Be a Problem for Employers
While office relationships aren’t always a problem, they can lead to workplace distractions, favouritism, or even legal risks if things go wrong. Employees who feel burdened with extra work due to distracted colleagues may become frustrated, leading to a negative workplace atmosphere.
Proactively addressing these situations helps prevent HR challenges, conflicts, and team disruption. Open discussions, clear workplace policies, and professional boundaries are key to maintaining harmony in the office.
Need HR Support for Managing Workplace Relationships? If you’ve noticed these telltale signs and need expert HR advice on handling office romances professionally, Metis HR can help.
Call us on 01706 565332 or email paul.roberts@metishr.local or jessica.fossey@metishr.local to arrange a FREE HR consultation.
