If you have a leadership role, you probably have blind spots. Because people often tell leaders what they want to hear, not what they really need. Some people around leaders often seem intimidated or don't find a safe space to be open and honest. As a leader, how can you overcome this challenge?

John Maxwell, in his book Developing the Leader Within You, suggested two actions:

First, assume that you have blind spots that may hurt you. Second, recognize that others could be intimidated and may not always be willing to help you with them.

Therefore he suggests asking these questions: “What is it like to be on the other side of the table from me?”, “What am I missing?” and “Can you help me?”

The two keys if you want to make a sustainable change are: to recognize it and make it acknowledged by others.

I also like the feedforward approach from Marshall Goldsmith, that is, asking for suggestions.

What are your suggestions for improvement? As your manager, what suggestions do you have for me? How can I be a better manager?

Feedforward helps people envision and focus on a positive future, not a failed past. By giving people ideas on how they can be even more successful, we increase their chances of success. It is more productive to help people be right than prove them wrong.

Remember that when you ask for suggestions, you should listen. Don't talk. Be sure that you understand and clarify, and then say thank you.

What other suggestions do you have?