I've had the opposite experience. I didn't feel flattered and she didn't get the hint.
>But ... many men are absolutely clueless and will never get that signal.
Weasel words. We're in Anecdote City right now.
>So I think part of this discussion needs to acknowledge that you can't write HR policy that will satisfy everyone.
The HR policies exist to prevent sexual harassment and to optimize for "safe against lawsuits." They're not supposed to make people satisfied or happy, they're there to protect the company.