New research by the dating app happn suggests that workplace romances may be falling out of favor with younger professionals, as Gen Z emerges as the least accepting generation when it comes to dating colleagues.
A study conducted by happn surveyed over 2,000 UK adults and found that only 50% of Gen Z respondents considered workplace relationships socially acceptable. In contrast, older generations were more open to office romance, with 55% of Millennials, 63% of Baby Boomers, and 64% of Gen X supporting the idea.
A significant portion of Gen Z – 32% – actively disapproves of dating within the workplace, citing concerns about distractions, professionalism, and career impact. 73% of those opposed said that office relationships reduce productivity, while 61% believe such romances are unprofessional. Additionally, 42% worry that breakups could create tension in the workplace, and 30% fear potential harm to their career reputation.
However, Gen Z’s reluctance is not shared by the wider UK population. The study found that 59% of all UK adults view workplace relationships as acceptable, and 43% have met a current or past partner at work. Millennials, in particular, are more likely to embrace office romances, often due to time constraints – 52% said they simply don’t have time to meet people elsewhere.
Despite the general acceptance of workplace relationships, secrecy remains common. Over 23% of UK adults admitted to hiding an office romance, with strategies including acting as “just friends” at work (59%) and commuting separately (16%). Some even engaged in discreet physical interactions, such as secret kisses (35%) or playing footsie under desks (14%).
Commenting on the findings, Claire Rénier, dating expert at happn, noted: “Work has long been a place for people to meet, connect, and in some cases even fall in love. It’s interesting to see Gen Z breaking away from established trends of previous generations. If they don’t agree with workplace romances, they are well within their rights – it is all a matter of personal preferences.”
