DEAR ABBY: What is the protocol for office romances? I have seen so many flings and love affairs go on. Sometimes it's fine, but other times it has caused a big distraction.
A supervisor dating a subordinate is probably frowned upon, but what if they're in different departments? Should an office romance be kept secret, or out in the open so rumors won't spread? I have never been a part of this, but I have seen plenty. What's right and wrong? -- CURIOUS IN THE CUBICLE
DEAR CURIOUS: There is no "protocol." Most companies discourage office romances because they're a distraction and make workers less efficient. If they happen between a supervisor and a subordinate and it doesn't work out, it could lead to accusations of sexual harassment and an expensive lawsuit. So while the temptation may be there, what's "right" is to avoid them and what's "wrong" is to indulge in one because it's risky business.