Consequences of Sexualized Interpretation of Leadership Feedback
Employees may receive performance evaluations that can either enhance their confidence and boost their morale or crush their self-esteem and lead to disengagement.
When these evaluations come from managers who have a history of making sexual advances or comments towards them, it is difficult for employees to separate their work performance from their personal interactions with the manager. This interpretation can negatively impact employee motivation and engagement.
Effects on Motivation
When employees feel uncomfortable around their managers due to sexualized behavior, they are less likely to be motivated to perform well at work. They may avoid interacting with their managers or even choose to leave the company altogether. In addition, if they do remain in the job, they may focus more on avoiding their boss than on accomplishing tasks, leading to decreased productivity.
If an employee's evaluation includes sexualized language, they may question whether their performance was truly evaluated objectively, further damaging their motivation.
Effects on Engagement
Sexualized feedback can also damage employee engagement. When employees see their manager as someone who makes them uncomfortable rather than supports them professionally, they may become resentful and disconnected from the company. This can lead to increased absenteeism, decreased loyalty, and lower retention rates. Further, if a manager engages in sexualized behavior outside of formal evaluations, employees may feel unsafe coming forward about any issues or concerns, reducing the ability of management to address problems.
Consequences for Companies
Companies that allow sexualized feedback to persist risk losing talented employees, decreasing morale, and damaging their reputation. The cost of replacing an employee can range from $15,0000 to $213,625, so it is important for companies to create a safe environment where all employees can thrive. When employees are engaged and motivated, they are more likely to contribute creatively and innovatively to the organization, leading to improved outcomes and growth.
What are the consequences of sexualized interpretation of leadership feedback on employee motivation and engagement?
Sexualizing leadership feedback can have significant effects on employee motivation and engagement. When employees receive feedback that is framed as a sexual innuendo or joke, they may feel disrespected, objectified, and uncomfortable. This can lead to decreased self-esteem and reduced job satisfaction, ultimately leading to lower productivity and engagement.