Sexual attraction can interfere with objectivity when evaluating performances, distributing resources, and assigning roles.
It is crucial to understand how this bias manifests itself and what steps managers can take to minimize its impact. This article will explore these factors in detail.
Objectivity: What is it?
Objectivity refers to an impartial and unbiased evaluation process where personal opinions, preferences, prejudices, or interests are set aside to provide accurate assessments. It requires detachment from one's feelings and emotions, as well as avoiding external influences that may affect judgment.
How does sexual attraction interfere with objectivity?
When a manager feels attracted to someone they manage, their perceptions and judgements might be skewed by their desire for approval or closeness. They may give undeserved praise, promotions, or rewards to achieve their desired result. On the other hand, if they find someone unattractive, they may underestimate their potential and abilities, leading to unfair negative feedback or lower performance ratings.
Performance Evaluations
Managers who feel sexually attracted to employees may overemphasize certain qualities while ignoring others, such as competence or experience.
They may focus more on physical appearance rather than skills, resulting in biased evaluations. Similarly, they may assign challenging projects to those they like instead of giving them to those most qualified, which can lead to unequal opportunities and frustration among workers.
Resource Distribution
Sexual attraction may also affect resource distribution, especially when there are limited resources available. Managers may favor their romantic interest, providing more time, money, or attention to them, leaving other team members feeling neglected and demoralized. This behavior can damage team morale and trust, potentially leading to resignations or legal action.
Role Assignments
Sexual attraction can influence role assignments, where managers may give preferential treatment to their crushes, giving them plum roles that offer higher visibility, responsibility, and pay. This practice creates an uneven playing field, making it harder for less-favored colleagues to advance professionally.
What steps can managers take?
To minimize the impact of sexual attraction bias, managers must remain objective in their assessments and decisions, focusing only on job requirements and merit. They should avoid close relationships with subordinates, refrain from discussing personal matters, and maintain a professional demeanor at all times. It is essential to follow company policies and procedures for performance evaluation, resource allocation, and role assignments. Managers who recognize this issue must communicate openly about it with employees, explaining why certain actions are necessary to uphold fairness and objectivity.
Can sexual attractions reduce objectivity in performance assessments, resource distribution, and role assignments?
Research suggests that sexual attraction can influence judgement and decision making regarding both professional workplace situations and personal relationships. While it is possible for individuals to be objective despite their romantic feelings towards someone else, studies have shown that sexual attraction does influence objectivity. This could lead to potential biases when evaluating others' performances, distributing resources, or assigning roles within organizations.