One model alone cannot hope to capture the full complexity of the human mind. A tool which we incorporate into our feedback sessions is the Johari window, developed by Luft & Ingham. The model is adept at uncovering the aspects of personality which escape our conscious attention. These 'blind spots' which only others are aware of (consciously or unconsciously) can have a large impact on our working condition, in both positive and negative ways.

Most of us also have things which we do not share with others unless the level of trust in the relationship is very high. This gradual increase in trust and sharing information from a start point of two or more people first meeting is a large part of the term' group process' and an area which we focus on at Arctic Inter-Action. The Johari window model is a simple and useful tool for illustrating and improving self-awareness, and mutual understanding between individuals within a group.

The Johari window uses four separate perspectives to represent information such as experience, views, attitudes, skills, intentions, feelings and motivation within, or about a person in relation to their group. These four categories are titled; open, blind, hidden and unknown.

It is also a model for opening up the lines of communication with others. It serves to show how we become increasingly more open to others as we get to know them and share information about ourselves. 

Communication:

Through the use of sociograms Arctic Inter-Action Another are able to illustrate the lines of communication, or channels of influence in between individuals in a group. A sociogram is a graphic representation of the interpersonal relations within a group. The relations can change as the group process develops, but a sociogram brings awareness to an area which is often overlooked. 

In many cases the problem with communication is not listening. The Chinese symbol for “to listen” contains various “under-signs” and shows the wisdom behind the art.

 

"When in stillness, one listens with the heart. The ear is worth ten eyes."

-- Zen Master Dae Gak, "The Practice of Listening"

 

When it comes to successful communication, you have to understand more than just the words being said. A good leader also understands that the words stem from personal perceptions, (personality & culture) and makes sure to listen with respect, then communicate on the same 'frequency' as their subordinates. Arctic Inter-Action provides a solid foundation for developing this habit, by using the tools described above and more.