The key findings
* With office Christmas parties in full flow, 27% of people admit they’ve cheated at their festive work bash.
* 67% revealed they shared a kiss with a colleague, whilst 11% say they went all the way and slept with a workmate.
* 16% of people admitted to getting frisky with their bosses – the majority being men making a move on their female superiors.
* Study conducted by IllicitEncounters.com, the UK’s largest extramarital dating site
For some, the office Christmas party is a highlight of the year – a chance to unwind, celebrate, and bond with colleagues. But for others, it’s an opportunity to throw caution to the wind, with a surprising 27% of workers admitting to cheating during their festive work bash.
The survey of 1,600 people conducted by extramarital dating site IllicitEncounters.com uncovered that women are more likely than men to give in to temptation at the Christmas party. Whether it’s the magic of the season or the influence of an open bar, the data shows a pattern of festive work hookups that may leave lasting consequences.
Of the Christmas party cheats, a whopping 67% admitted to locking lips with a colleague. But for some, the holiday heat didn’t stop at a smooch. A saucy 11% confessed to taking things to the next level and hopping into bed with their coworkers.
And while it’s often assumed that these flings are harmless one-offs, the stats suggest otherwise: 24% of the workplace cheaters admitted to continuing their Christmas party affair beyond the festivities.
Another surprising twist in the findings is the dynamic between bosses and employees. A daring 16% of respondents owned up to getting frisky with their bosses during the party – with men being the primary offenders making moves on female superiors.
One person who took part in the poll and asked to remain anonymous, shared their story: “I didn’t go into the party thinking it would happen. But after a few drinks, one thing led to another, and I ended up kissing a colleague I’d secretly fancied for ages. We’ve kept it going in secret ever since, and honestly, it’s added a spark to my otherwise boring job.”
Expert comment from Jessica Leoni
Sex and relationships expert Jessica Leoni from IllicitEncounters.com offered her take on the results: “The office Christmas party is a perfect storm for infidelity. Alcohol lowers inhibitions, and the festive atmosphere encourages people to let their hair down. Add in the proximity of colleagues who already spend a lot of time together, and it’s no wonder sparks fly. While these encounters might seem exciting in the moment, they can have lasting repercussions on both personal and professional relationships, which is worth keeping in mind.”
Further Reading
For more on this topic, explore discreet dating on Illicit Encounters.
