Ask Amy: ‘Best of’ column concerns workplace harassment
I completed my assignment feeling awkward and wondering if I wanted to work with him in the future. This is not a decision I can make lightly as there are very few job opportunities in my area of expertise, and now I don’t know what to do.
Amy, I would appreciate your perspective on this situation. I wonder if he has a problem that should be reported to the board of trustees.
I also wonder if I am making too much of this.
Am I?
– Kissed Consultant
Dear Kissed: Addressing the question of whether you are making too much of this: Do your other colleagues and clients kiss you on the lips after a business meeting? Does this director kiss male colleagues and consultants on the lips after a meeting?
I assume the answer to both questions is no.
People who are subjected to unwanted sexual contact often wonder if they are overreacting. They are often also encouraged to doubt their own instincts.
There is a very common-sense boundary around business meetings, and it's not really that challenging or confusing to stay within the boundary. Physical contact after a business meeting should be confined to a handshake.
Yes, I believe you should write a letter to the board of trustees regarding this new employee.
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