OK to confront scantily clad colleague?

Q: When is it appropriate for a man to speak to a woman co-worker about what she’s wearing? If he finds it too revealing, can he say something? If he likes it, can he pay a compliment without it being harassment?

Steve: Unless you thought the woman was revealing something she didn’t intend to, I’d avoid mentioning that subject. As for paying a compliment, that’s OK as long as it’s done tastefully. Right way: “That’s an attractive skirt you’re wearing.” Wrong way: “Baby, that tight skirt makes your booty look fine.”

Mia: Easy rule: If you’re not sure if it’s OK to speak, don’t. And never use the word “booty” in a workplace setting, Steve. Or in any other setting, for that matter.

Q: I’m a 26-year-old guy working in a corporate-type job. Every summer we get a number of interns, and this year I’ve been assigned to coordinate their responsibilities. One of the girls and I have really hit it off. She’s a 21-year-old college junior. The age difference isn’t that bad. Can I ask her out?

Mia: Wait till the summer is over to ask her out. Right now you have a supervisory position over her and that could get you in trouble at work. For the time being, just be friendly. But don’t try to hang out with her one-on-one “as friends.” In my experience, those kinds of arrangements always turn into makeout sessions.

Steve: Never, ever date someone you work with. If things go bad, you’ve fouled two nests at once. Once she’s done with the job, then she’s fair game.

Q: I really want to have children, but my wife says she isn’t ready. She’s 33! How much more time does she need? I don’t want to miss our chance.

Mia: Well, I wouldn’t use that line of questioning with her or you’ll be sleeping in the baby’s room all by yourself. Try to talk with her about what’s holding her back. Maybe she has fears or anxieties that you don’t know about. Above all, you should be supportive. And since she’s the one who gives birth, you’ll have to bow to her time frame at least a little.

Steve: No one who has doubts ought to be a parent. It’s hard enough even when you both want kids. Also, you are a bit too panicky when it comes to your wife’s biological clock. Many women are well into their late 30s before they have their first child, and pregnancy in the early 40s is no big deal these days. So you’ve no need to pressure her. Let her reach her decision on her own.

Q: I’m allergic to my boyfriend’s dog. Every time I get within 10 feet of it, I start sneezing and my eyes water. Frequently, even dog hair on my boyfriend’s clothes will set me off.

So I can’t go to his house, and anytime I see him he has to practically shower ahead of time. I don’t want to ask him to give the dog up, but this is destroying me.

What should I do?

Mia: Have your boyfriend stand in the middle of the room. Then you go to the far right and send the dog to the far left. Whomever the boyfriend runs to, he loves more. If he picks you, he can boot the dog no problem. If not, you’re in trouble.

Steve: Get thee to an allergist! Medication can save this romance.