Picture this: a manager, passionate about a new approach they’ve developed, eagerly shares their ideas during a leadership team meeting. As they start explaining their strategy, they are abruptly interrupted and talked over by their director, who quickly dismisses their idea without allowing the manager to fully articulate their reasoning. The manager, feeling deflated, eventually “agrees” but leaves the meeting with a sense of frustration and diminished confidence.

As a leader, how did the director’s approach make you feel?

Now, reflect on your recent leadership team meetings. Have you ever been this type of leader? Did you interrupt or dismiss an idea from a team member without hearing them out? If you answered yes, this could indicate a leadership blind spot that needs to be addressed.

Being mindful of your leadership style and addressing blind spots is crucial. Engaging in dismissive interactions like the one described can negatively impact not only the manager but also the entire team dynamic. However, by adopting constructive approaches, you can turn such challenges into catalysts for growth and improved communication. Here’s how:

Listen Actively:

 Encourage active listening among all team members, including leaders. Ensure they have the space and respect to fully express themselves without interruptions. This fosters a culture of open communication and mutual understanding.

Show empathy and respect:

Emphasize the importance of empathy and respect in leadership interactions. Leaders should acknowledge and validate the contributions of their team members, even if they disagree with certain approaches. This builds trust and encourages a collaborative environment where diverse viewpoints are valued.

Give constructive feedback:

Teach leaders how to provide constructive feedback respectfully. Encourage them to ask questions, seek clarification, and offer suggestions for improvement rather than dismissing ideas outright.