The Blind Spot

A blind spot is an aspect of your behaviour that you can’t see and impacts others in a negative manner or it prevents you from reaching your goals.

It represents all the other things people know about you, yet you are unaware of; for example: you’re being very loud in a meeting, you’re interrupting others to make a point… Unless someone gives you feedback about it, you cannot begin to correct it.

Business blind spots happen because we lack self-awareness and we fail to see ourselves through someone else’s eyes.

Three reasons that place us in the blind spot:

• Self-centred approach that leads to poor listening skills
• Resistance to change that prevents you from growing / learning
• Not asking for feedback from co-workers (or not working on it when received)

How do you eliminate the blind spots?

• Get feedback about things you do, formally or informally; Ask questions: “How did you find my presentation?” “ What could I have done better in this meeting?”
• Observe your co-workers while giving a presentation or a speech: Are they on their phones? Did they start yawning? If so, adjust your style on the go – move to the next topic faster, introduce a joke
• Work on the feedback received. If someone highlights something you’re doing wrong, work on it, take the time to evaluate your actions

Continuous learning  and self-assessment will put you on the right track and clear your way to success.

What do you think about blind spots? Did you identify any in your area?