The role of sexual involvement in mentoring, coaching, and talent development across organizational levels is a controversial issue that has received little attention in academic literature.
Recent research suggests that there are many ways in which sexual involvement can shape these processes. In this article, I will explore how sexual involvement can affect mentoring, coaching, and talent development at different organizational levels.
Mentoring is the process of providing guidance, support, and advice to an individual who is less experienced than oneself. Sexual involvement can play a significant role in this relationship, as it can create a power imbalance between the mentor and mentee.
If a male manager is attracted to his female subordinate, he may be more likely to offer her special opportunities for advancement in order to increase their intimacy. This type of behavior is known as "mate poaching" and can lead to resentment and jealousy among other employees.
Sexual involvement can make it difficult for the mentee to receive objective feedback about their performance, as the mentor may be afraid of hurting their feelings or losing them as a romantic partner.
Coaching is similar to mentoring but focuses on developing specific skills rather than offering general advice. In this context, sexual involvement can also have significant effects.
If a coach is sexually involved with one of their athletes, they may favor them during training sessions or competition. This can lead to other athletes feeling like they are not getting equal treatment and may reduce morale. Coaches may also feel pressure to promote their sexual partner over others, even if they are not the best player.
Talent development involves identifying and cultivating high-potential individuals within an organization. Again, sexual involvement can shape this process by creating a sense of obligation on the part of the mentor or coach. If someone helps another person advance professionally, they may feel that they owe them something in return, leading to increased expectations and demands. This can make it challenging for the mentor/coach to provide constructive criticism or push the individual to improve further. It can also create resentment from other team members who see the favored employee receiving preferential treatment.
Sexual involvement can have both positive and negative effects on mentoring, coaching, and talent development across organizational levels. While it may lead to increased intimacy and closeness between the parties involved, it can also create power imbalances, hurt other employees' feelings, and limit objectivity. Organizations need to be aware of these potential pitfalls and take steps to mitigate them through clear policies and procedures.
How does sexual involvement shape mentoring, coaching, and talent development across organizational levels?
Research shows that sexual interactions between mentors/coaches and mentees/mentees can have both positive and negative impact on mentoring and coaching relationships. Sexual involvement may lead to increased intimacy, trust, and mutual respect within the relationship, leading to better communication and goal setting (Hoobler & Durrheim, 2013).