One of your co-workers approaches you on Friday as the workday wraps up. They say that they have enjoyed getting to know you in a work environment and wonder if you would like to go out to dinner with them over the weekend.
You politely turn them down, but you find yourself wondering if they should have even asked you out at all. Is it a form of sexual harassment for them to ask you on a date when you never indicated any interest in them beyond being a co-worker?
It can be in certain situations
Often, asking someone out is not considered sexual harassment. However, it can be depending on the specifics of the situation.
For example, repeatedly asking someone out can be a form of harassment. If your co-worker asks you once, you turn them down, and they do not bring it up again, there is probably not an issue. However, if they start asking you out every week, convinced that you will say yes eventually, then you are being harassed.
It also depends on how and why they ask you out. If they respectfully ask you for a date and let it go when you say no, it may not be an issue. But if they try to manipulate you or put you under duress, then it could be problematic.
Maybe you feel cornered or uncomfortable because no one else is around when they talk to you, or perhaps they imply that it will be better for your career if you say yes. That is potentially a form of quid pro quo sexual harassment, especially if that person is your superior in the work hierarchy.
Every situation is unique, but it is important for workers who believe they have experienced sexual harassment on the job to understand all of their options. If you’re not able to resolve the matter at work, it may be wise to seek legal guidance.