Sexual sympathy is defined as an emotional connection based on shared experiences, interests, or personal characteristics between people who are attracted to each other. It can include romantic attraction, platonic love, physical attraction, intellectual compatibility, mutual respect, and even a sense of humor. Research suggests that sexual sympathy plays an important role in developing close relationships and shaping organizational outcomes such as performance, satisfaction, motivation, loyalty, and commitment.
There has been little research on how it affects informal mentoring and coaching or access to developmental opportunities within organizations. In this article, I will explore how sexual sympathies might impact these activities.
The first way sexual sympathy may influence informal mentoring is through increased communication and understanding. When two individuals share similar views, backgrounds, and preferences, they are more likely to communicate effectively and understand one another's perspectives. This helps them build trust, which is crucial for effective mentorship.
If a mentor and mentee share the same sexual orientation, they may be able to discuss their feelings about LGBTQ+ issues more openly than if their orientations were different. This openness could lead to deeper insights into the mentee's strengths, weaknesses, and career goals. Moreover, if the mentor shares the mentee's gender identity or racial/ethnic background, they may be better equipped to provide guidance and support related to those identities.
Sexual sympathy may play a significant role in determining whether or not a mentor provides developmental opportunities to their mentee. Mentors who feel sexually attracted to their mentees may be more willing to offer job assignments that involve interacting with others outside the organization or taking risks that could lead to promotions or other rewards.
They may be more inclined to help their mentees overcome obstacles that relate directly or indirectly to sex and relationships, such as improving self-confidence or leadership skills.
There are potential downsides to this arrangement; a romantic connection between the mentor and mentee could distract from professional goals and create conflict if things don't work out romantically.
Sexual sympathies can also impact coaching sessions by making participants feel comfortable disclosing personal information and seeking advice on sensitive topics. Coaches who share similar values, beliefs, and interests with their clients may be able to connect more deeply and provide tailored feedback based on their shared experiences.
If a coach has had previous experience working with women returning from maternity leave, they might have insight into how best to support a client going through the same transition. Likewise, if a coach is bisexual, they may understand the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace and provide appropriate resources for them.
Mutual attraction can lead to better communication, trust, understanding, and ultimately, improved performance.
While sexual sympathy may benefit informal mentoring and coaching, it must not interfere with professionalism. Mentors should maintain boundaries and avoid favoritism when assigning developmental opportunities to those they find attractive. They must also ensure that these activities do not become overly personal, leading to misunderstandings or conflicts of interest.
Organizations that foster an environment where employees feel safe discussing their sexual orientation, gender identity, and relationship status will reap the benefits of increased productivity and retention rates.
How might sexual sympathies affect informal mentoring, coaching, and access to developmental opportunities?
Sexual sympathy can have both positive and negative effects on informal mentoring, coaching, and access to developmental opportunities. On the one hand, individuals may be more likely to provide support, guidance, and resources to others who share similar sexual orientations or identities, creating a sense of belongingness and promoting development.