While many workers have been forced to swap the oasis of their homes for an office cubicle, a traditional work arrangement may give some a hidden advantage over their “work from anywhere” peers. For many, it's an opportunity for connection. But for singles, specifically, it could be a chance for romance. Glassdoor’s limited-time community pop-up bowl, “Love & Life” is heating up with workers shooting their shots in hopes of finding their “professional boo” in the bowl. Turns out, an in-person conversation hits differently than sliding into someone’s Slack messages.
Big picture: A recent Glassdoor Community poll* found that nearly half of professionals (45%) think workplace connections could hold more potential for romance than dating apps when asked, “Does office romance sound more promising than online dating?”
But, it’s tricky: Asking a coworker out isn’t as straightforward as meeting someone in a more neutral social setting or swiping right to match with someone on a dating app. While a separate poll** found that 74% of workers have either been in a relationship with a coworker or know someone who has, a few warned it may be best to proceed with caution.
Community members offered advice like checking your company’s policy first and avoiding dating those you work with or report to directly to avoid a potentially messy situation. While some shared their dating woes, others highlighted their success stories.
Consider this: If you’re thinking about pursuing an office relationship, Dr. Erika Bocknek, family therapist and relationship expert, has a few tips for navigating dating at work.
“Workplace romance can only work with open communication and intentionality. First, make sure any flirtation or personal connection happens off-site. Develop a friendship. Ask for plans. Then, when you are comfortable, have a clear conversation about your interest,” she said.
Dr. Bocknek also emphasized the importance of respecting the other person’s opinions, feelings, and boundaries, as well as informing your job’s HR department, as needed.
Don’t miss your chance: Join the “Love & Life” Bowl before it’s gone for more expert advice and opportunities to meet your match in Glassdoor Community.
Methodology: *This poll ran in December in Glassdoor’s Worklife Bowl and received responses from over 500 professionals.
**This poll ran from January 14, 2025 through January 18, 2025, and was answered by over 2,500 U.S. professionals. Respondents could answer with either “Yes,” or “No, ” to the question, “Does office romance sound more promising than online dating?” For subgroup breakouts including age, gender identity, and industry, all categories received at least 100 responses from U.S. professionals on the platform.