Sexual harassment in the workplace can take many forms. Sometimes it is verbal harassment, such as making jokes or insulting comments at another person’s expense, especially if it continues when the offending party is asked not to do so. Sometimes it is physical harassment, such as unwanted touching and unwanted physical contact.
One type of harassment to be aware of is quid pro quo sexual harassment. How does this work, and what sets it apart from other types of harassment employees may experience?
They are being offered something in exchange
Quid pro quo harassment happens when an employee is offered something that they want in exchange for sexual favors or a sexual relationship, often with someone in a position of power over them.
An example of this could be the CEO of a large corporation who wants to have a sexual relationship with someone who works under them. In order to get that employee to comply, the CEO tells them that they will be given a promotion or a pay raise. They may receive preferential treatment in the workplace, or they may be protected from mass layoffs.
This can make the situation more complex because it may appear that the relationship between the two parties is consensual. However, it is not necessarily a matter of true consent because of the power imbalance between those two individuals, especially if the employee feels manipulated or fears losing their job if they refuse the other person’s advances.
Quid pro quo harassment cases can be complex, and it is critical that employees understand what legal protections they have and what steps they can take.