By Kurt Greene, Vistage Worldwide, Inc. Master Chair
A study by Stanford University found that many CEOs struggle with isolation. While two-thirds of CEOs studied don’t receive outside leadership advice, 100% of respondents said they’d be open to making changes based on advice and feedback if they did.
Let’s explore three common mistakes that business leaders make when selecting a council of peers for perspective and support.
Mistake #1: Settling for a “comfortable” group environment.
Strong peer groups view vulnerability as a strength, not a weakness. A good peer group knows how to make the uncomfortable comfortable and the undiscussable discussable.
Recommendation: Will the peer group help you confront your assumptions and blind spots? If they don’t challenge you, then it won’t change you.
Mistake #2: Assuming that a true peer group must be peer led.
High-performing peer groups are facilitated by a “smart guide” who not only has business experience and expertise, but also takes personal and passionate ownership for unlocking group and individual potential. Smart guides are experts at asking the right questions and have a fearless commitment to creating a learning environment that works for busy leaders.
Recommendation: Make sure the peer group has a smart guide. Does the guide have visible passion, experience, a servant-leader mindset, and know how to keep things fun?
Mistake #3: Downplaying the power of a structured, proven process.
Effective peer groups follow discussion rules that ensure great decisions. If no process or discipline is in place, then discussions can devolve into a free-for-all where the input is influenced mostly by the stronger personalities in the room.
Recommendation: Evaluate the peer group’s methodology. Look for a highly strategic and structured approach that delivers a way forward.
Who you surround yourself with matters. Avoid these mistakes to find a safe and confidential council of contemporaries that can be your personal laboratory for professional and personal growth. Trusted peer groups are the best solution for the tremendous responsibilities and solitary challenges that men and women at the top face.
For more information, please contact Kurt at Kurt.Greene@VistageChair.com or 865-407-0703.
If you want to go fast, go alone.
If you want to go far, go together.
– African proverb