Companies that spot trends early on and transform their business focus at the right time are in the minority. Why do some companies have blinders on when assessing trends? A company’s very success is often what holds them back from seizing opportunities. The mindset of leaders is crucial to combating this enemy of change.
We tend to be creatures of our past; our experience shapes what we believe and our perception of reality. In sum, everyone is biased. Our history and success are strong sources of our bias. What often sets good leaders apart from leaders who miss opportunities is colored vision. Good leaders see beyond their bias and spot trends that may be disparate from their past experience.
Automatically assuming something based on bias can handcuff you from changing direction to capitalize on a fruitful opportunity. To combat bias and gain clarity, I recommend organizations use numbers and metrics to quantify trends and dispel bias that doesn’t mesh with the trends.
Avoid the enemies of change. Put your history and success in your back pocket while assessing your reality. Use an unbiased view to ensure you can see trends as they really are and find opportunities that you may have missed before.
Great point, Scott, about using metrics to quantify trends.
What you say is so true. If we have a hammer, everything looks like a nail — whether it is or whether it’s something completely new and different. Our biases prevent us from seeing things that are happening or changing, because we are conditioned to expect something else. Getting the facts and figures will help us cut through.
– Anita
Great point, Scott, about using metrics to quantify trends.
What you say is so true. If we have a hammer, everything looks like a nail — whether it is or whether it’s something completely new and different. Our biases prevent us from seeing things that are happening or changing, because we are conditioned to expect something else. Getting the facts and figures will help us cut through.
– Anita
Thanks, Anita!
It’s often difficult to separate your past experience (successful or otherwise) when making decisions about your business. Fortunately, I’ve found quality data exists if you look hard enough and ask the right questions.
Thanks, Anita!
It’s often difficult to separate your past experience (successful or otherwise) when making decisions about your business. Fortunately, I’ve found quality data exists if you look hard enough and ask the right questions.