We all have blind spots—those things that others can see but are unknown to us. Sometimes, they are relatively harmless. But when leaders leave certain blind spots unchecked, it can be serious—not only for the leader but for employees and the organization. Here's how to catch those blind spots.

1. Ascertain whether people know the goals.

Many leaders wrongly assume that employees understand which organizational goals are most important. Don't assume; ask.

2. Share with people that what they do matters.

People need to understand how their daily work connects to the goals, vision, and strategy.

3. Leave it up to your employees to do their jobs.

Be careful not to think that you know how to best accomplish the work that helps a company meet its goals. Your people are much closer to the everyday work than you are.

4. Listen to learn what your employees find motivating.

Different things motivate people. Some leaders believe that if they personally find something motivating, their people will feel the same. What one person considers a reward, another thinks is far from positive recognition.