Have a crush on a guy at work? Here’s how to read the signs, stay professional, and figure out if it’s mutual—without creating office drama.
You’re definitely not alone. Whether it’s the way he holds the door, offers coffee refills, or throws casual jokes in meetings, office crushes can hit hard—and make things feel way more complicated than they need to be.
The challenge? You're trying to figure out your feelings while also navigating office dynamics, professional boundaries, and maybe even HR rules. Here’s how to handle it like a pro (without making it weird).
1. Know the difference: harmless crush vs emotional entanglement
A crush is fine. It happens. But if you’re obsessing, overanalyzing every Slack message, or fantasising during work hours—it’s time to pause.
- Can you still focus on tasks without distraction?
- Do you feel anxious when he’s not around?
- Are you prioritising him over deadlines?
Keep it real. Don’t let butterflies ruin your work ethic.
2. Read the vibe, not the fantasy
Before you start planning cute lunch breaks or hallway flirts, ask yourself: Is he giving the same energy?
- Does he make eye contact often?
- Does he initiate small talk outside work topics?
- Has he ever hinted at hanging out outside work?
If he's polite to everyone the same way—it's probably not personal. Don't confuse professionalism with flirting.
3. Keep it professional (for now)
Even if you're crushing hard, never cross certain boundaries—especially early on:
- Don’t flirt over work emails or public chats
- Don’t joke about your feelings to mutual coworkers
- Don’t change your workload just to be near him
You want to build trust and respect—not office gossip.
4. Flirt smart: subtle > obvious
If you think the feeling might be mutual, subtle moves are best:
- Laugh at his jokes (genuinely)
- Make eye contact, hold it for 2–3 seconds
- Drop one casual compliment—then step back
If he picks up the vibe and responds, you’ll know. If not? No harm done.
5. Know your workplace rules
Some companies have strict no-dating policies. Others are more relaxed. Either way:
- Know your HR code before making a move
- If he’s your direct manager—or you’re his—extra caution is mandatory
- Even mutual attraction can get messy if not handled well
You’re not just protecting your heart—you’re protecting your job.
Need help decoding his energy?
6. When (and how) to make a move
If the connection feels genuine, respectful, and mutual, you could test the waters—outside the office.
- Say: “A few of us are grabbing drinks Friday. You in?”
- Or: “Hey, if you’re ever down for coffee outside work, let me know.”
Low pressure. Low drama. Maximum clarity.
7. What if he says no—or just doesn’t respond?
Take the L with grace. You're still a boss at your job. Don’t let it affect your confidence or how you work together.
- Act normal at work—no awkward tension
- Respect the boundary and move on
Crushes fade. Reputations last.
8. What if things actually progress?
Congrats. Now be smart:
- Agree on how to keep things discreet until you’re sure
- Decide if you’ll disclose to HR (if required)
- Don’t let personal stuff spill into team meetings
Love and career can mix—but only if both are secure.
Stats on workplace crushes (2024)
- 61% of workers admit to having a workplace crush (Forbes)
- 27% of relationships in major cities start through work
- But only 15% of workplace crushes turn into real relationships
More dating guides from IChhori
Crush on a guy at work? Handle it with grace, awareness, and confidence. Whether it’s a passing phase or something real, keep your head high—and your performance higher.