Leadership isn’t static—it’s a continuous upgrade. And the most powerful upgrades begin when you’re willing to confront what you haven’t yet seen.
🌟 Emerging Blind Spots in Today’s Leadership Landscape
As leaders, we’re navigating more than just team dynamics—we’re steering through shifting expectations, hybrid work environments, and the pressure to “always be on.” These changes have introduced new blind spots that weren’t on our radar five years ago. And if we’re not paying attention, they’ll quietly erode trust, impact, and results.
Here are a few blind spots noted by research that I’ve seen surface in recent coaching conversations:
Favoritism. With hybrid working options, are you unintentionally favoring the team members you see more often than others? Many publications have talked about the assumption that visibility equals productivity – but that’s a blind spot. (Harvard Business Review and Inc.com)
Leadership Upgrade: Build scheduled check-ins and recognition systems that include everyone, regardless of location.
Fixed Leadership Style. Studies show that 54% of managers default to a single leadership style (e.g., collaborative, directive, or hands-off) (Blanchard LeaderChat). This often leads to micromanaging or a lack of employee and team engagement.
Leadership Upgrade: Flex your style. Ask yourself: “What does this situation need from me right now?” Not “What do I usually do?”
Digital Perfectionism. In a world of polished Zoom calls and social media posts, attempting to hide behind a perfect image will often backfire when they meet you!
Leadership Upgrade: Leadership isn’t about being flawless—it’s about being real. (OurMental.Health and Arxiv Research) Sharing your process is just as important as sharing the results you’ve achieved. Let them see the truth of your leadership journey — it builds trust.
“Blind spots aren’t flaws—they’re invitations. When you’re willing to see what you’ve been missing, you unlock a deeper level of leadership.” —Jeannette Seibly
🔄 How to Flip Blind Spots into Savvy Leadership
Here’s how to turn blind spots into strengths that elevate your leadership:
- Use Assessments and 360-Degree Feedback. Leverage tools that reveal how you want to be seen, how you actually show up, and how others perceive you. These insights offer a powerful trifecta of clarity. But the real transformation begins when you partner with an executive coach to interpret the results, create a focused action plan, and engage in hands-on conversations over a period of time.
- Hire the Right Executive Coach—and Listen. Being coachable is key. A skilled and experienced coach helps you bypass trial-and-error and zero in on what truly needs attention. Avoid overanalyzing your blind spots—just listen, adjust, and implement. Your coach isn’t there to fix you—they’re there to help you see what’s been hiding in plain sight.
- Engage with an Industry Mentor. Mentors offer insider knowledge about your company, team dynamics, and industry politics. Together with your coach, they help you navigate complex situations and accelerate your growth. The key to effective mentorship is to show up, listen up, and do the work!
- Welcome Feedback from Your Team. Your team wants you to succeed—but you must create a safe space for honest feedback. Use structured 360 assessments to gather insights, then act on them with intention.
- Dial Up Your Humility. Participate in emotional intelligence workshops and leave your ego at the door. Mastery requires authentic practice, effective coaching when using the
skills, and a willingness to grow.
- Sharpen Your Communication Skills. Strong communication is non-negotiable. Take workshops to uncover biases and build confidence in how you write, speak, and connect with others.
- Identify Triggers and Biases. We all have them. Work with your coach—and if needed, a licensed therapist—to uncover subconscious patterns and develop healthier responses.
🚀 Ready to Lead Today with Impact?
Leadership upgrades don’t happen by accident. They happen when you choose to see, listen, and act with intention. What blind spot are you ready to transform today?
With over 32 years of experience, I’ve helped leaders get out of their own way and into focused action—transforming blind spots into stepping stones for savvy, results-driven leadership.
© Jeannette Seibly, 2020–2025 All Rights Reserved
Jeannette Seibly, an award-winning Talent Advisor, Leadership Results Coach, and Business Author, has guided thousands of executives and business leaders to achieve remarkable success over the past 32 years. Her specialty is delivering innovative solutions for hiring, coaching, and leadership challenges—with excellence and accountability at the core.