Page 74 - Fearless Leadership

The Blind Spots That Derail Leaders 61

only true measure. Ask others to provide you with feedback and listen care-
fully to what they have to say.

What Are Your Top Three Blind Spots? Over the years, you have
received considerable feedback about your effectiveness as a leader.
Consider what you have heard, and identify the common theme such as
“People say I don’t listen.” Now multiply what you have heard by a factor
of 100. Most likely, the feedback has been softened and delivered in a polite
and cautious manner to you. It is likely that you have not received the mes-
sage others were trying to communicate. Or you may understand the intel-
lectual message but not appreciate your emotional impact on others.

What Are the Top Three Blind Spots of Your Team? Consider how your
team works together, and identify the top three blind spots. Ask other team
members to do the same, and compare your perceptions. Remember
that others may be cautious in expressing their genuine point of view,
so treat this as a first step in discussions about blind spots. Until others
know that it is safe to speak up and that they will not be judged, they will
be hesitant.

LEADERSHIP ACTION
Be Courageous: Ask Your Team to Coach You
on Your Blind Spots

Ask your group to participate in a discussion about how you can be a more
effective leader (or partner) to them. Let the group know you want to share
your blind spots, learn how you impact them, and hear their coaching. It
is important that others know that you are not asking them to discuss their
blind spots; the focus is strictly on you. Also, do not put others on the spot
by asking them to defend or justify their views. Perceptions are real, and
all points of view are valid.
If you are not ready to listen and be coached, do not attempt to lead
this activity. This is a powerful conversation, and your fearless leadership
is required. You will lose credibility if this is perceived as a meaningless
exercise or if you explain or rationalize your behavior. Your accountabil-
ity is to listen fully—without judging or reacting, create a safe and open
environment, and take accountability for your impact.