EEOC guidelines define quid pro quo sexual harassment as:

Quid pro quo sexual harassment is specifically defined as a form of harassment in which employment decisions or benefits are conditioned on the acceptance of sexual advances or favors. In this context, there is a direct link established between specific employment outcomes—such as promotions, salary increases, or continued employment—and the granting of sexual favors by an employee.

This means that if an employee feels pressured to comply with sexual advances in exchange for job benefits, it constitutes quid pro quo sexual harassment. The clear connection highlights how the employment relationship is manipulated for sexual favors, distinguishing it from other forms of harassment, which may encompass broader issues of a hostile work environment or retaliation.

The focus here is on the obligation created by the power dynamics in the workplace, where one party uses their authority to obtain sexual favors, thereby violating EEOC guidelines aimed at preventing such unethical practices. Understanding this definition is crucial for recognizing and addressing instances of workplace harassment effectively.