We all have blind spots. The problem is we don’t perceive them. We don’t see them even when they are in plain sight of others.
I was dealing with a manager this week who was so frustrated because one of his leaders could not see something that was obvious. So obvious, in fact, he should not even have to mention it. I then asked if it is a blind spot. Think about it. Would a person traveling 70 miles per hour in a compact car knowingly shift lanes into a semi truck — at a risk of killing himself and his passengers — if he saw the truck? No, it was in a blind spot.
Think of dollars wasted and revenue lost every day in companies due to individual or organizational blind spots. As a servant leader, how do we eliminate our blind spots and help others become aware of theirs? Here are a few ideas to help you this week:
- Always ask your trusted advisors to point out the not so obvious things you need to see.
- Develop an attitude to encourage and embrace feedback.
- Do a SWOT/SCOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses/Challenges, Opportunities, Threats) often and with others.
- Take inventory of or update your executive profile every two years with a qualified advisor.
- Look twice. Then look again.
The year of innovation is rapidly approaching. Our research is telling us 2016 will be the year of Experience Innovation in the workplace and in the market. Being innovative is another way to guard against blind spots.
The innovation process is a step-by-step way to solve problems by removing blind spots and being 100% accountable for results. To be innovative, you must work together to
- Collaborate to paint the picture of the desired future state,
- Experience the reality of the current state,
- Build the action steps to bridge the gap, and
- Hold each other accountable to implement and stay focused on the milestones to the desired outcomes.
Following the process with accountability with others removes the blind spots that we and others possess. It’s quite simple. If only it could be that easy.
Human relations principle of the week:
“Use encouragement. Make the fault seem easy to correct.” ~ Dale Carnegie
This post is brought to you by the good folks at Dale Carnegie Training of Western and Central PA, providers of professional development and management development courses and information in Pennsylvania. We would love to connect with you on Facebook and Twitter @dalecarnegiepa.