In its survey of professionals nationwide conducted in late January, Vault found that 47 percent of workers have participated in an office romance and an additional 19 percent would be willing to do so if the opportunity arose. Vault's 2003 Office Romance Survey is based on responses from over 1,000 professionals at companies nationwide.

In addition, 13 percent of respondents said their employer had a policy regarding office dating, 51 percent said their company has no policy, and 36 percent said they didn't know whether one existed.

When asked to comment about romance in the workplace, respondents replied:

• "Office romance is bound to happen. If you have people sharing common interests (work) + extended time together (40 hrs) + physical attraction = a perfect match."
• "Nothing wrong with office romance and it is actually a good thing, because I look forward to going to work to see my crush. I think that the consulting industry has the highest rate of office romance because you're constantly out on the road, and it can get pretty lonely."
• "Where else can you really see what somebody is like on a day-to-day basis? Usually office behavior/personality carries over to the private life. If someone is courteous, understanding, outgoing, etc, they will be that way in a romantic relationship as well and you typically spend 8-12 hours at work and it is a very good way to get to know someone."
• "When you work 80 hours per week, it is sometimes hard to meet anyone. You spend all your time in the office."

Links

• Vault Survey