Remember that AI roast I told you about? The one that left me feeling like I needed a thicker skin and a better sense of humor? Well, it did have one positive side effect: it got me thinking about how I, as a leader, can really benefit from some honest, objective feedback.

In my last post, I explored how AI can analyze my emails to reveal subtle communication patterns I might not even be aware of. But AI can go even deeper than that. It can actually help me uncover blind spots that hold me back from being the best leader I can be.

The Blind Spot Conundrum

We all have them. It’s human nature. Our brains are wired to protect our egos and confirm our existing beliefs, making it difficult to see ourselves objectively.

Think of it like navigating a tricky off-road trail in your Land Rover. I’m focused on the path ahead, checking my mirrors, but even with all that, there are still those blind spots. And sometimes, that hidden obstacle – a rock, a ditch, or even a rogue cactus – can really throw me off course.

(Don’t believe me – check out this scary moment!)

Early in my leadership journey, I was so eager to prove myself that I was like a kid with a brand new slingshot, pulling that rubber band back as far as I could. I was training teachers to use technology in the classroom – this was back when computers were still pretty new in schools – and they were hesitant. I kept pushing them to display all these different skills. I thought I was being a strong leader, but really, I was just stretching that rubber band too far, too fast.

My boss pulled me aside and said, “If you keep stretching that rubber band like that, it’s going to snap.” He explained that I needed to be more patient, giving those teachers time to adjust and learn at their own pace. It was a valuable lesson in the importance of meeting people where they are and understanding their limits.

AI as an Unbiased Observer

This is where AI comes in like a high-tech spotter for my leadership journey! AI tools can analyze tons of data – meeting transcripts, performance data, and emails. By crunching all this information, AI can spot patterns and trends that I might miss. It’s like having an unbiased observer who can see things from a completely objective perspective.

AI doesn’t have an ego to protect or any preconceived notions. It simply presents the facts, allowing me to gain a clearer understanding of my own strengths and weaknesses.

Types of Blind Spots AI Can Reveal

Here are a few specific types of blind spots that AI can help uncover:

• Micromanagement tendencies: Constantly checking in, asking for updates on every detail, or micromanaging work.
• Delegation issues: Taking on too much work or failing to empower my team to make decisions.
• Communication gaps: Using negative language, being overly critical, or failing to provide positive reinforcement.
• Decision-making biases: Favoring certain individuals, making decisions based on personal preferences, or being influenced by confirmation bias.
• Unconscious biases: Subtle biases that affect behavior and decision-making.

Turning Insights into Action

Once I’ve identified my blind spots with the help of AI, I can take action.

• Self-reflection: Honestly reflect on the AI’s findings.
• Seek external perspectives: Ask trusted colleagues or mentors for feedback.
• Develop targeted strategies: Create an action plan to address my specific blind spots.
• Set goals and track progress: Stay motivated and ensure I am making progress.
• Continuous learning: Leadership is a lifelong journey. Continue to be open to feedback and learning.

Remember, leadership is a journey, not a destination. It takes ongoing effort and self-reflection to continue to grow and develop. Using AI as a tool in our development can move us along the continuum in ways that supports our teams.

Next Steps

In the next installment of this series, I’ll explore how AI can help leaders develop specific skills or enhance emotional intelligence. Stay tuned!