Half of office workers fantasise about their colleagues

Around half of all workers fantasise about sleeping with a colleague, client or superior, according to new research. The study by office supplier Printerland.co.uk examined what the British public think about their colleagues and revealed that while around half have thought about sharing their bed with a co-worker, a quarter have actually had an office romance, regardless of their personal lives.

While most British workers get cosy through social media and on alcohol-fuelled nights out, the advances begin in the kitchen and on the coffee run. 62% of men admitted to fantasising about a work relationship, although they were also the most likely to be put off by working with someone they’re dating.

Almost one in three of those having an office fling were romantically unavailable as it was found that 12% were already seeing someone else, 2% were engaged while 16% were married at the time of their office fling. Rarely going public, around one in five people openly admit to their relationship, even if it’s long term, with 43% never telling anyone for fear of losing their jobs or relationships.

Across the country, Aberdeen is the most chaste in the workplace, while those in Sheffield are the most likely to get flirty with their peers. Despite many considering it a taboo subject and swearing themselves to secrecy, a quarter of office flings become serious relationships, and 39% then go on to marry.

“Working so many hours compared to our European friends, it’s unsurprising that so many people are getting together with colleagues. It’s nice to see so many of the nation’s secret office relationships have resulted in marriage,” said Catherine Bannan, HR manager at Printerland.

“But remember if you do get involved with someone at work and the relationship ends badly, you may have to work with that person for a long time, which could lead to a whole host of problems.”