What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write Power of Peers: How the Company You Keep Drives Leadership, Growth, and Success?

During a company rebranding initiative for Vistage Worldwide in 2013, we asked CEOs and business leaders how they approached learning, growing, and bringing new ideas to their companies. To a person, we would hear responses such as, “I read books, listen to podcasts, have a coach, hire consultants, attend events and conferences, engage in executive leadership development programs at places like Harvard and Stanford, etc.” No one identified peer advisory groups or forums as being in their consideration set. We understood the power of peer advisory groups for business leaders, yet we know that when you compare the number of leaders who are in groups to those who could be, the gulf was massive. Rather than write a hardcover brochure, so to speak, about Vistage, we aimed higher. We approached this from a category perspective, examining peer advisory groups everywhere so that our readers could see the value, decide if it’s right for them, and join the group that best meets their needs.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

Who you surround yourself with matters,
We learn better together.
Together, we give each other the courage, encouragement, and confidence to apply what we learn.
No one who succeeds in this world does it alone.
The good news is you don’t have to.

What is a common misconception you feel people have about peer relationships?

Two things: First, I can’t learn from my peers because they don’t know any more than I do. Second, I can’t learn from people who work outside of my industry sector. It doesn’t take more than reading our book or going to one peer advisory group meeting to dispel both of these misconceptions.

What is one thing you hope readers take away from your book?

We would like people to see the value of peer advisory groups – how they can help the readers and make the world a better place.

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