John is seated at a table sending a text message from a smartphone. Marissa is using a smartphone while seated at a desk.

Case Study Six

Moving Up

Marissa’s supervisor (John) has been sending her flirtatious text messages asking her to spend some time with him outside of work. The messages express his desire to start an intimate relationship and they usually end with him saying that he can help her move into a leadership role. Marissa is interested in moving up but not if it means having an intimate relationship with her supervisor.

Could this be considered harassment?

The correct answer is yes

The correct answer is yes

In this instance the supervisor, through flirtatious electronic communication, seems to be implying that starting an intimate relationship could lead to a promotion. As a result, Marissa may be left to believe that moving into a leadership role means accepting the dating request. Given the circumstances, a reasonable person could conclude that the promotion is tied directly to the dating request. Marissa should report the conduct to management or HR so that the matter can be addressed immediately.