Golden Ratio of Human Resource Management
Vol. 6 No. 2 (2026): March - July

Love on the Clock: How Workplace Romance Affects Job Performance through Workplace Happiness and Fun at Work

Nadia, Fiona Niska Dinda (Unknown)
Akbar, Rasyidi Faiz (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Feb 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the positive role of workplace romance in enhancing job performance among Millennial and Generation Z employees across multi-organizational settings in Indonesia. Using a quantitative approach with 370 respondents who have experienced workplace romance, the research tests a mediation model where workplace happiness and fun at work serve as affective mechanisms linking romance to performance. The findings reveal that, when consensual and well-managed, romantic relationships at work can foster emotional support, engagement, and stronger social bonds, leading to improved job outcomes. The study’s novelty lies in reframing workplace romance—not as a risk factor—but as a potential emotional and motivational resource, particularly within collectivist cultures and younger generational cohorts. It is among the first to empirically demonstrate the dual mediating roles of workplace happiness and fun at work, contributing to both Affective Events Theory and the Broaden-and-Build Theory of Positive Emotions. The study offers theoretical insights and practical implications for organizations navigating relational dynamics in Indonesia’s rapidly evolving workforce.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

grhrm

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

Golden Ratio of Human Resources Management (GRHRM) encourages courageous and bold new ideas, focusing on contribution, theoretical, managerial, and social life implications. Golden Ratio of Human Resources Management welcomes papers that are based on human resources management for example: ...