How have romantic movies affected our perception of office romance?

Movies impact our perception of reality, particularly when it comes to our romantic relationships. Romantic movies often depict office romance as an exciting and enticing relationship. In reality, there are countless rules preventing office romance and a whole lot of judgment that comes with it. 

Roller banner printers, instant print, surveyed office workers and found that over half of them want to see workplace relationships banned completely. In fact, a staggering 71% of Gen-Zers (17 to 24-year-olds) are totally against office relationships and seriously discourage them. Office breaks create rifts in the team and make it difficult to maintain a professional atmosphere. It’s difficult to work productively and professionally when personal relationships begin to infiltrate the office. 

In the last year, remote work has become the new normal, and only 16% of workers are now against office relationships. When everyone is working from home, office workers spend less time in the same space socializing. Office relationships are unlikely to impact team relationships when everything is done virtually. However, Gen-Z maintained their stance on office relationships and said they are uncomfortable with office romance even with remote work. 

Gen-Z is known for being environmentally, ethically, and politically aware of previous generations. Their firm stance on office relationships may stem from the recent #MeToo movement on social media. instantprint found that after #MeToo, UK workers became more aware of the language of power and the issues surrounding office romance. Male workers began to tread more carefully, and the atmosphere around office relationships shifted slightly. 

Office romance is mentioned in TV shows and movies all the time. Famous shows like The Office, Parks, and Recreation, and Friends all feature office romance. Equally, movies like 500 Days of Summer and Love Actually also present office romance as one of their main themes. Brits are frequently exposed to office romance in the media, and therefore, they may begin to expect to see romance in their own office. The more office relationships are advertised on TV, the more normal and socially acceptable they become. 

As we move forward in the post-pandemic and #MeToo world, we may see fewer office relationships in our favorite TV shows. If the younger generation continues to stand against this sort of romance, there is no need for it to be broadcasted in the media. Of course, we may see more TV shows and films like Jennifer Anniston and Reese Witherspoon’s, The Morning Show. The hit show on Apple TV explores the trials and tribulations of office relationships and how they impact the larger team. 

Office relationships are a controversial topic that is likely to get a few team members riled up. Whether you are in an office romance or not, always be respectful and considerate around your professional team.