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Irish offices: Where love stories begin

Wednesday, February 13 11:03:34

Close to half (42pc) of Irish employees admit to having a workplace liaison with a fellow employee with 63pc of them admitting to feeling a tad ashamed of their behaviour, according to a survey from Peninsula Ireland today.

The survey also found that 66pc of staff have a secret crush on another employee.

Alan Price, managing director said that workplace encounters seem to be a priority for workers, but that they can be a headache for bosses.

"With Valentine's Day just around the corner offices will no doubt see romances blossoming through gifts and Valentines cards being exchanged between individuals. There is nothing to stop these romances from happening, however it can distract employees from the job at hand, and this may lead to some personal information being exchanged through company email."

"Some people may find their life long partner at work, so we shouldn't discourage individuals, but we should remind them that there is a time and a place, and work is best kept separate. Some employees may receive Valentine's cards from secret admirers and while some people may find it funny, it can create an awkward tension."

"If romances get in the way of work, then perhaps review your company policy to see if the type of relationship is forbidden and only deal with it if it is disruptive to work. Remember that anything discussed must be done so behind closed doors. If the relationship is affecting other employees negatively then it will need to be addressed."