Part 1: Flirtation in the 1950s

Office flirtation in the 1950s was often seen as charming and socially acceptable within workplace culture.  It was not uncommon for a spark between colleagues to lead to a date, a relationship, marriage, children, and the classic suburban dream.  Flirtation was viewed as a stepping stone to the American dream.

Examples of 1950s Flirtation:

• Compliments on attire or hairstyle, often delivered with a smile or wink.
• Playful banter is exchanged at the water cooler or during coffee breaks.
• Leaving small tokens like candy or flowers on a colleague’s desk.
• Handwritten notes expressing interest or admiration.
• Invitations to lunch, dances, or company picnics.
• Office romances between secretaries and executives are often glamorized in films and magazines.

These interactions were frequently portrayed in popular media as aspirational, reinforcing the notion that workplace flirtation could lead to lifelong companionship.

Part 2: Flirtation in the 1960s

The 1960s marked a significant shift in societal norms.  The sexual revolution, the rise of feminism, and changing gender roles began to reshape workplace dynamics.  Flirtation, once a subtle dance, became more open, but also more complex, reflecting the changing times.

Key Influences:

• The counterculture movement challenged traditional norms.
• Feminist voices began to critique power imbalances in workplace relationships.
• Media like Mad Men depicted both the allure and toxicity of office flirtation.
• The Civil Rights Movement and broader calls for equality began influencing workplace policies.

Flirtation in the 1960s was still common, but increasingly scrutinized.  The seeds of modern HR policies, aimed at regulating workplace relationships and ensuring respect and equality, were being planted.

Part 3: Media’s Role in Shaping Workplace Romance

From the 1950s through the 1980s, the media played a pivotal role in shaping public perceptions of workplace flirtation.  It was not just a reflection of society, but a powerful influencer, often blurring the lines between professionalism and personal interest.

Examples from Media:

• Bewitched (1964–1972): portrayed a magical housewife navigating domestic and professional life.
• Mad Men (2007–2015): retroactively explored 1960s office culture, highlighting both charm and exploitation.
• Working Girl (1988): depicted ambition and romance in a corporate setting.
• Advertising often romanticizes boss-secretary relationships, reinforcing gender stereotypes.

These portrayals influenced real-life expectations and behaviors, often blurring the lines between professionalism and personal interest.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to redefine professionalism, consent, and interpersonal boundaries, it’s crucial to understand the historical context that shaped previous generations’ experiences.  Exploring flirtation across decades offers a lens into evolving values— and a reminder that cultural norms are never static but are always influenced by the past.

Would you like to continue with flirtation in the 1970s next, or explore how workplace romance is portrayed in contemporary media?