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.

Can managers hang out with employees?

Is it OK to invite this person to have lunch or hang out outside of work? These are common questions that managers face regarding workplace friendships. And the simple answer is: its complicated. Managers can (and should) be friendly with their employees.

Should bosses socialize with employees?

PRO: It can increase employee engagement Speaking of stronger relationships: Socializing with employees outside of work is key to growing employee engagement. Taking the time to get to know your employees shows that you value them as members of your team.

Why bosses should not be friends with their employees?

Remember Whos The Boss Being too friendly can jeopardize your authority. “Attempting to be friends with your employees makes providing feedback and performance appraisals difficult and puts you at risk for claims of favoritism,” says Devora Zack, CEO of Only Connect Consulting, Inc.