The Power of Peer Relationships

Leadership and managerial responsibility bring with it all manner of challenges. Even for the most prepared, assuming the role of supervisor, manager and/or leader can bring about situations that could not have been anticipated or expected. Having a broad base of training, combined with a highly developed personal learning system can equip leaders with the tools they need to bring about personal and organizational success.

Whether new to management responsibility or a “seasoned veteran” having access to leadership resources is essential. These can take the form of journal articles, podcasts, books, subscriptions, workshops, and most important of all, people! This is where peer networking comes in.

Being part of a group of trusted colleagues who face (or have faced) many of the challenges and opportunities you do can make all the difference. Over time, these relationships grow in importance and enduring friendships often result.

While there are many peer development options for senior executives, similar programs for up-and-coming managers have been scarce. Yet, the need for highly focused management workshops (covering business basics such as finance, marketing, sales, operations, human resources, etc.) specifically designed to address the needs of rising professionals has never been greater.

Since 2021, the Graphic Communications Leadership Institute (GCLI) has been conducting quarterly workshops for developing managers interested in furthering their understanding of key business subjects and in honing their leadership skills and ability. While the program content is robust and case studies are part of every workshop, it is especially rewarding to see the level of peer relationships forming and gaining strength with each quarterly program. Even as new members sign on, they are quickly welcomed and assimilated into the group.

A three-year program, GCLI’s initial cohort completed the program 2023. Despite this, there was a strong desire among members to continue their professional and peer development journey. In response to this demand, a Graduate Level GCLI program was developed, and the cohort continues to learn and grow.

Meaningful, impactful professional development is not a one and done proposition. Understanding that self-development ends at the onset of self-satisfaction, serious minded professionals appreciate the importance of continuous learning. It’s not surprising that the most successful organizations make development programs like GCLI a priority and represent a key component of their business growth plan.

The time is now to give your business a competitive advantage by preparing the next generation of organizational leaders the tools and the peer relationships they need.

To learn more about GCLI, go to gcleadershipinstitute.com, or email me at joe@ajstrategy.com.