On the contrary, some experts argue that a relationship between a supervisor and subordinate can never be truly consensual as long as the supervisor wields economic or other power over the subordinate. If the relationship sours, the subordinate may find the continued advances of the supervisor to be unwelcome. Some employers have attempted to ban all workplace relationships. This is a harsh step and, often, serves only to force relationships underground. Others employers have developed formal policies prohibiting fraternization, e.g., limiting romantic relationships between supervisors and subordinates.
Most employers have no formal policy regarding supervisor-subordinate dating.
This does not mean that employers do not monitor consensual relationships to prevent harassment. One tool that is often mentioned, yet infrequently used, is the dating waiver. Touted by some law firms, the so-called love contract is an effort to reduce liability in the event of souring consensual relationships. The contract does not avoid problems arising out of workplace romances. MSEC is willing to address issues surrounding dating in the workplace with employers.