A coworker comes to your cubicle at the end of a Friday and asks you if you’d like to go out sometime for a drink. They say that they think the two of you have a connection and they’d like to get to know you better.
But you’re not sure exactly how to navigate this type of relationship. You don’t want to go on a date with your coworker, but you find yourself wondering exactly what is permitted. Is it sexual harassment if someone tries to get you to agree to a relationship that goes beyond a strictly professional one?
How many times did they ask?
In the situation described above, it is likely not sexual harassment. If they just asked you politely and they only asked once, it’s usually not an issue. If you said no, and then they dropped it and didn’t bring it up again, then they are respecting your boundaries. It would be much different if they pestered you, kept asking repeatedly or would not take no for an answer. Then it could cross the line into sexual harassment.
Was there any coercion?
Another thing to consider is if you felt like you could say no. Did they try to coerce you or manipulate you into the relationship? This is mostly an issue when employees are asked to date are by someone higher up in the business hierarchy. If a supervisor tries to pressure you into a relationship with promises of a promotion or threats that you’ll be terminated, then it is quid pro quo sexual harassment.
Every case is unique, but it’s very important to understand all of your legal options if you believe that you are facing sexual harassment on the job.
