Why Every Leader Needs a Peer Group

Leadership can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. A strong peer group offers a confidential space to navigate challenges, exchange insights, and refine your leadership.

Brad Weinbrum, CEO and Founder of Nivalmi, has spent over 30 years in peer groups, both as a member and a facilitator. His experience underscores the profound impact of these groups on leadership success. As he says:

“Being part of Vistage for over 30 years and numerous other peer groups specific to my business allowed me to learn best practices early on. It helped me foresee pitfalls and avoid mistakes others had made. I made plenty of my own, but I can’t imagine where I’d be without the insights and support I gained from my peer groups.” 

The Power of Peer Groups

85% of peer group participants feel more confident in their leadership, and companies with strong leadership networks outperform competitors by 30%. Peer groups also lead to:

• Better Decisions: 70% of leaders in peer groups report improved strategic decision-making.

• Honest Conversations: Get candid, objective feedback without office politics.

• Diverse Insights: Exposure to different industries helps you see blind spots and spark innovation.

• Accountability: Structured peer support increases follow-through on goals by 50%.

Brad’s Peer Group Lesson: A Costly Promotion Mistake

“I once considered promoting a top sales rep to a management role. My peer group cautioned me, pointing out the vastly different skill sets required for success in both positions. I listened—until a few years later when I ignored my gut and their advice. It was a disaster. Within four months, it blew up. That experience solidified for me the immense value of peer group insights.”

What Leaders Often Misunderstand About Peer Groups

Many leaders assume peer groups are just for networking or sharing war stories. But as Brad points out:

“Leaders aren’t always prepared to have their answers questioned. In a peer group, your peers challenge your assumptions. They push you to get to the root of your real issues—the ones people inside your company might not tell you about.”

This level of transparency and accountability is what makes peer groups invaluable for personal and professional growth.

The Nivalmi Peer Group Experience

At Nivalmi, we curate peer groups of high-level leaders committed to growth. With expert facilitation and structured discussions, our groups foster better decision-making, leadership development, and business success. Brad’s experience as both a member and facilitator gives him a unique perspective - “I know what works and what doesn’t.”

Peer groups don’t just offer professional guidance; they build lasting relationships.

“90% of leadership challenges are the same, regardless of the business. And most of those issues? They’re about people. At the end of the day, it all comes down to how you support and lead your team. Peer groups remind you—it’s the people, stupid.”

Are You Ready to Find the Right Peer Group?

Ask yourself:

✔ What do I want to gain? Strategy, leadership growth, problem-solv

ing?

✔ Am I open to feedback? Growth requires candid conversations.

✔ Who are the other members? Are they at similar leadership levels?

✔ Is it well-facilitated? Strong moderation ensures valuable discussions.

✔ Does it align with my values? The right group challenges and supports your growth.

Learn more about Nivalmi's Executive Peer Groups