Every case of workplace sexual harassment is unique. Some professionals endure mistreatment from coworkers or supervisors that produces a hostile work environment. Others may experience quid pro quo sexual harassment.
Quid pro quo sexual harassment can have a major chilling effect on an individual’s career and may even prove damaging to their mental health. Employees need to be able to recognize quid pro quo sexual harassment so that they can effectively assert themselves.
Did a supervisor abuse their authority?
Quid pro quo harassment typically involves one professional in a position of power trying to manipulate a subordinate. They use an individual’s career aspirations to coerce them into romantic relationships or sexual intimacy.
In some cases, quid pro quo sexual harassment involves a promise of career benefits for personal favors. Offering a raise or promotion in exchange for sexual favors is an example of quid pro quo sexual harassment. Threatening to punish a professional who refuses romantic or sexual advances can also constitute quid pro quo harassment.
Workers should not have to provide intimate favors for business owners, supervisors or human resources professionals to obtain job opportunities or avoid career-ending consequences. People who have experienced quid pro quo harassment in the workplace may lose their jobs or lose out on opportunities for which they are theoretically qualified due to the misconduct of another professional.
Documenting quid pro quo harassment, reporting it to an employer and taking legal action may all be necessary steps for those enduring sexual harassment at work. Professionals should not have to compromise their ethics or personal standards to secure job opportunities or avoid workplace punishments.