A study of nearly 52,000 managers highlighted the link between "proactively seeking feedback" and "effective leadership." Specifically: The bottom 10% of managers who rarely sought feedback ranked among the worst in leadership effectiveness.

Meanwhile, the top 10% of leaders who frequently sought feedback ranked among the top 14% in leadership effectiveness. (Forbes) Multidirectional communication and feedback allow each member and the entire team to recognize existing issues and find ways to improve, thereby enhancing both individual and collective performance.

In today's newsletter, let's analyze the Johari Window model in team management and leadership with The New Leaders!

The Johari Window model, developed by Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham in 1955, is a psychological tool used to improve self-awareness and interpersonal relationships within a group. This model divides information about an individual into four "windows" or "areas":

• Open Area: Information that both the individual and others know.
• Blind Area: Information that others know about you, but you don't know.
• Hidden Area: Information that you know about yourself but others don't.
• Unknown Area: Information that neither you nor others know.

How to Apply This Model to Leadership?

The goal of the Johari Window is to expand the Open Area as much as possible. This means that your qualities and strengths are clearly recognized by both yourself and others.

In the context of team management, expanding the Open Area also means that the leader helps team members gain a clear understanding of the collective's strengths and competitive advantages and communicates this clearly and consistently to the outside.

#1 Expand the Open Area into the Blind Area through Feedback Seek feedback from others to see what they perceive that you might not. Managers can use tools like 360-degree feedback and cultivate a culture of giving and receiving feedback within the organization to enhance this process.

#2 Expand the Open Area into the Hidden Area through Self-Disclosure Values that you have but others do not see mean you have not clearly demonstrated them. Leaders should also appropriately show vulnerability to create deeper connections with employees. This is why leaders, especially politicians, often rigorously train in inspirational storytelling to effectively convey their values to others, thereby attracting and mobilizing crowds.

#3 Expand the Open and Hidden Areas into the Unknown Area through Self-Discovery or Collaborative Discovery Identify and cultivate new qualities and abilities that are not present in the Open, Blind, or Hidden Areas but are desired for the future. Specific solutions include:

• Participating in personal development activities and leadership training.
• Accepting new challenges to explore untapped potential within the team.
• Encouraging innovation and creativity within the organization.

What Benefits Does the Johari Window Bring to Leaders and Organizations?

Benefit #1: Improve Communication and Build Trust Clear Communication:

• Clear Communication: When leaders share more information about goals, plans, and expectations, the team better understands the direction and methods to achieve common goals.
• Reduce Misunderstandings and Conflicts: Transparency and honesty in communication help minimize unnecessary misunderstandings and conflicts among team members.
• Build Trust: When leaders are open and honest, employees find them more trustworthy, laying the foundation for effective and sustainable working relationships. Encourage Team
• Honesty: Open leaders make employees feel more comfortable sharing their opinions, suggestions, and feedback.

Benefit #2: Enhance Problem-Solving and Team Development Richer Information Collection:

• When more information is shared and discussed, leaders can gather diverse opinions and perspectives, leading to more informed decisions.
• Effective Conflict Resolution: Openness in communication helps leaders quickly and effectively identify and resolve internal conflicts.
• Discover and Develop Employee Potential: When leaders are open about the organization's development needs and goals, employees feel encouraged to develop their skills and potential.
• Self-Improvement: Receiving feedback from the team helps leaders identify areas for personal improvement and develop better leadership skills.

Benefit #3: Increase Engagement and Motivation

Create a Positive Work Environment: Openness helps create a work environment where everyone feels comfortable and valued, boosting employee engagement and motivation. Encourage Participation: When leaders share information and listen to team opinions, employees feel valued and respected, increasing their commitment to their work.

Benefit #4: Boost Creativity and Innovation Encourage Creativity:

An open environment encourages employees to present new and creative ideas. These ideas can add significant value to the organization and help the company grow stronger. Embrace Change: Open leaders are more likely to accept and promote change, helping the organization be flexible and adapt to new challenges.

The Johari Window is not just a tool but a continuous journey of self-discovery and personal development for leaders. Persevere in honing your communication, feedback, and inspirational storytelling skills, constantly expanding your "open area." By doing so, you not only enhance your personal leadership effectiveness but also inspire and build a strong, united team ready to face any challenge and achieve new heights together.