India Secures Second Place in Global Workplace Romance Rankings

Workplace romances are prevalent across the globe, with a recent international study revealing that India ranks second for such relationships. The survey, conducted by Ashley Madison in collaboration with YouGov, examined attitudes toward office relationships in 11 countries, placing India just behind Mexico.

The survey, which included a sample of 13,581 adults from countries such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, the UK, and the US, found that 40% of Indian respondents reported having dated or are currently dating a colleague. This figure surpasses those in the US, UK, and Canada, where the rate is approximately 30%. In Mexico, the percentage is even higher at 43%, indicating a global trend in workplace romances.

Despite an increasing focus on professional boundaries, the data suggests that office relationships remain commonplace in India. Notably, the study highlights a significant gender disparity: 51% of men reported having engaged in workplace romances, compared to just 36% of women. Researchers attribute this discrepancy to differing levels of risk tolerance in professional settings.

Women appear to exercise greater caution regarding the potential consequences of office relationships. Nearly 29% of female respondents indicated they avoid such romances due to fears of professional repercussions, slightly higher than the 27% of men who expressed similar concerns. Conversely, men are more frequently deterred by worries about personal fallout, with 30% citing this reason compared to 26% of women.

A shift in attitudes among younger employees is also evident. Those aged 18–24 exhibit the most concern regarding the impact of office romances on their careers, with 34% expressing wariness. This generational trend reflects broader societal changes and a growing awareness of workplace dynamics.

India’s high ranking in workplace romances aligns with a broader cultural shift towards openness regarding non-traditional partnerships, such as open marriages. A separate survey conducted by Gleeden, a platform for individuals seeking extramarital connections, revealed that 35% of Indians are currently in an open relationship, while 41% would consider it if proposed by a partner. This openness is not limited to major metropolitan areas; smaller towns are also exhibiting similar trends, with Kanchipuram emerging as a notable location for interest in extramarital affairs.

The findings from this study underscore the complexities of workplace relationships in India, illustrating both the prevalence of such connections and the evolving attitudes toward personal and professional boundaries. As societal norms continue to shift, the implications for workplace dynamics are likely to be significant.