Leaders - Peer Groups

PEER GROUP 2008-2009

May 2009 report from James “Bud” Emerson, Facilitator

The premise of this project is that leaders of various grass roots change organizations can realize mutual benefit from working in a confidential small group setting on a regular basis.

In October, 2008 eight leaders from a variety of organizations were assembled by the Foundation for Change and agreed to test a model used with private sector CEOs to determine if it could be adapted to their circumstances.  Using a volunteer facilitator from the CEO process, the group agreed to meet monthly for six months. In April, 2009 the group assessed their experience and concluded that the model was effective and decided to continue and add 2-4 new members.

Members of the group agreed that change leadership is often lonely and seeking perspective and advice from other leaders is helpful in improving effectiveness and achieving goals. They agreed to meet for 3 hours every month and to follow ten ground rules:

            1.   All discussions are held in strict confidence
            2.   Each member is candid in describing plans, issues, problems
            3.   Members focus on strategic plans and issues more than tactical actions
            4.   Group questions and listens to fully understand member issues
            5.   Group suggests ideas, possible courses of action, recommendations
            6.   Group focuses on action, expecting follow through and accountability from members
            7.   Meetings are facilitated by a neutral third party
            8.   Group membership is limited to 12, maximizing diversity
            9.   Meetings are often  hosted by members at their work sites
            10. Group invites outside speakers on topics of mutual interest

After six months of meeting the group offered this self-assessment:

• We have developed a protected space for candor, confidentiality, and trust.
• We have learned much about one another's endeavors.
• We are committed to helping all members achieve their goals.
• We have been helpful in members getting perspective on their endeavors.
• We are bringing good issues and working constructively.
• Some members have found opportunities to collaborate.
• We need more group diversity, ethnic and subject matter.
• We want more follow-up and accountability.
• We want more briefings from outside sources.

Facilitator’s assessment:

• The group has progressed more rapidly than his experience with CEO groups, particularly in terms of trust and mutual support.
• More emphasis is needed on strategic issues and accountability.
• Attendance has been at least 75% which is important to achieving quality group output. More members and diversity will enhance the process.
• This model is replicable.