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The Johari Window is a powerful tool for understanding and improving communication in any business setting. Developed by Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham in the 1950s, the Johari Window is a model for describing the process of self-awareness and mutual understanding within a group or team. Understanding the Johari Window can be a key to multifamily leadership.
The model is represented as a four-paned window, with each pane representing a different aspect of communication. The first pane represents “Open Area,” which is the information known to the individual and others in the group. This is the foundation of effective communication and understanding.
The second pane represents the “Blind Spot,” which is the information known to others in the group but not to the individual. This can be a source of misunderstandings and conflicts, as the individual may be unaware of how others perceive their actions or words.
The third pane represents the “Hidden Area,” which is the information known to the individual but not to others in the group. This can be a source of power imbalances and mistrust, as others may feel that the individual is holding back vital information.
The fourth pane represents the “Unknown Area,” which is the information unknown to either the individual or others in the group. This can be a source of potential growth and discovery, as the individual and the group can learn new things about each other and themselves.
By understanding the Johari Window and working to increase the size of the open area, your multifamily organization can improve communication and collaboration among team members, leading to increased productivity, creativity, and overall success. To help increase the available space, companies can encourage open and honest communication, provide opportunities for team building and collaboration, and provide regular team member feedback. Weekly One-to-One meetings are the perfect tool for this work.