To those who want to explore the possibility of a relationship with a colleague, Quinn recommends you tread carefully and without assumption.

“Try to not instantly assume that they’re on the same page as you regarding how – or if – they want the relationship to continue,” she says. “Instead, try to start with a clean slate and slowly negotiate what you both want. This is especially important as it’s a workplace relationship – while romance is wonderful, it’s not necessarily worth sacrificing your career over.”

Quinn says you should start by just being brave and reaching out to say ‘hi’ if you have their contact details. Or, if you’re seeing them in person soon, ask if they want to go for coffee so you can have the conversation there.

“If they’re open to at least exploring a relationship with you, you’ll sense a degree of reciprocation,” Quinn says. “If they’re not, take the feedback on board, and don’t push too hard. Remember, you only want to build a relationship with someone who wants the same things as you do. If they’re not mirroring your desire for a committed relationship, put your needs first and nip the situation in the bud.”

Andrew Fennell, former recruiter and director at StandOut CV, a CV and careers advice site, says there are also some red tape-y things you need to think about before you embark on a workplace relationship.

He explains: “Review whether either of you have signed anything that could mean this would be a problem. It’s worth checking all employment contracts for details; they may dictate this needs to be raised with HR within a certain timeframe, for example. There’s also the potential that any activity like this is completely restricted.”

Unfortunately, there are added complications to keep in mind if the person you want to explore a relationship with is at a different level of seniority than you.

Fennell says: “If you’re currently applying for a promotion or negotiating a raise, starting a relationship with someone above you in the company hierarchy could make it look like you haven’t ‘earned’ that promotion. Regardless of how hard you worked for that next step, people can be quick to jump to conclusions and it may sour internal relationships with colleagues if they generate these misconceptions.”

So you got with someone at your work Christmas party. Now what?