Surviving a Hostile Work Environment

Q: I had been intimate with a colleague of mine from another firm for several years. Our relationship was strictly casual and despite being intimate we maintained a platonic friendship.  About six months ago a position opened up at her agency and I landed the job, immediately ending all physical contact with this woman. Well, naturally she is not taking it well and has been harassing me ever since I started working with her. I am afraid to make a complaint because it will only tarnish my reputation and hers and am hoping you can help me figure out what to do.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is a sticky situation that will require you to be extremely introspective on what you are experiencing and how the situation is impacting your work performance and future employment.   According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), there are two types of sexual harassment claims: “quid pro quo” and “hostile work environment.”  Quid pro quo harassment involves implied demands for sexual favors in exchange for a promotion, pay increase or to avoid a hardship.  A hostile work environment is discriminatory or sexual behavior that interferes with an employee’s performance and or creates an intimidating work environment.   A hostile work environment can be brought on by anyone you work with including a peer, supervisor or subordinate.   It is important to keep a journal recording the harassment as well as any email exchanges documenting the incidences of harassment.  Taking into consideration the above guidelines, think about your situation and determine if the harassment falls into either category.   If the answer is yes, speak to Human Resources immediately.  Companies have an obligation to protect their employees and ensure that the working environment is free from harassment.  Finally, if you do not think that your case is as severe, I would urge you to sit down with your co-worker/former friend in a neutral place such as the office cafeteria and conduct a non-hostile conversation regarding your concerns and recommend a course of action to put an end to the negativity.