It is not automatically illegal for a manager or supervisor to date his or her employee. Consensual relationships happen in the workplace every day. But employers and supervisors need to carefully consider the consequences before taking that first step toward asking a direct report on a date.

Is it illegal for a manager to date an employee?

There is no law against dating ones boss. But many companies have policies in place that restrict bosses and managers from dating subordinate employees. These policies are in place to prevent an employee from being pressured into a relationship.

Is it unethical to date your boss why?

Its a natural and easy way to meet people, and work offers a common interest. But office dating also can cause distractions, conflicts, preferential treatment and other issues. In some cases, a failed relationship can lead to a sexual-harassment lawsuit.

Are no fraternization policies legal?

Maintaining a non-fraternization policy is usually legal but there are limits. Making the policy too broad, as Guardsmark did, is one way to go wrong. Another is to ignore state or local law.