Just like belly buttons...we all have them

We all have them...blind spots...In business, these can be defined as an area of ignorance or a lack of understanding negatively impacting decision-making and performance. These blind spots can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of diverse perspectives, communication and transparency, and/or a lack of self-awareness.

One of the most common blind spots in business is a lack of diverse perspectives. (Another business case for diversity) When a company's leadership is homogenous or monolithic, it can be difficult for them to understand and relate to the perspectives of different groups. This can lead to poor decision-making and a failure to understand the needs of the two most important cohorts...customers, employees. Leaders should actively seek out and incorporate diverse perspectives into their decision-making processes. Pressure test your assumptions. Start with hiring a diverse workforce...Engage with diverse stakeholders....Provide diversity training and education.

Another common blind spot and morale killer is a lack of communication and transparency. When information is not shared openly and honestly, it can lead to misunderstandings but more importantly mistrust. This then leads to poor decision-making and a lack of individual and collective accountability. We've all experienced it...To avoid this blind spot, leaders should foster an open, transparent work environment where employees feel comfortable sharing information and expressing their opinions without fear or risk of "sticking their necks out." This can be achieved through regular communication, employee engagement initiatives, and pursing a culture of trust and transparency. Easy to say, years to create...and years of intentional actions to cultivate/grow.

IMHO, the worst (meaning the most difficult to address) blind spot...a lack of self-awareness. Sure it's uncomfortable, but everyone including leaders must be willing to take a hard look in the mirror, honestly assess what they see and make necessary adjustments...even better, ask those around you to provide anonymous feedback....then listen and take the lesson... : ) When leaders are unaware of their biases, assumptions, and limitations, it leads to poor decision-making and failure to strongly consider the perspectives of others. Consider engaging in regular self-reflection and seek feedback from colleagues. New insights into personal performance and impact on others can be achieved through mentorship, coaching, and 360 evaluations.

Like belly buttons, we all have blind spots...Be honest with yourself...Seek out diverse perspectives, foster open and transparent communication and engage in regular self-reflection...in healthy environments, work is fun, fulfilling, driven, competitive and delivers a better result for all...customers and employees. By being aware and addressing blind spots, leaders can make better decisions, improve performance and lead their organizations to success.