[jakobe]

I assume it's about setting expectations. If you meet your true love at work, company policy isn't going to stop you.

But company policy might give you an easy way out when someone is hitting on you (and you aren't interested), without hurt feelings.

Also, this isn't just about men hitting on women; it also goes the other way.

[jiggy2011]

So hitting on someone at work is ok as long as they're interested, otherwise you get fired?

[thaumasiotes]

Isn't this longstanding policy nearly everywhere? SNL's words of wisdom on "how to avoid committing sexual harassment at work":

1. Be handsome

2. Be attractive

3. Don't be unattractive

[jakobe]

No one said love was without risks!

Joking aside, I think you are misunderstanding me.

I don't suggest anybody should be fired for asking someone for a date. I'm saying that company policy can give you an easy way to say "no" to a date: "Sorry, I don't want to jeopardize my career, you know company policy.". Ideally, the person asking you out will accept your rejection, and there's no need to fire anyone.

[Kequc]

If the woman is attracted to you then she expects you to make a romantic gesture. If you don't she's hurt. If she's not attracted then such a gesture could hurt her. Policies like no dating is a lot to do with protecting women in the workplace from having to go out of their way expressing themselves. A much better policy could be everyone has to make their intentions clear.