Thomas J. Saporito’s recent post on the HBR Blog Network (click here) and the CEO Snap Survey (click here) confirms the value of “CAREFRONTATION” by a peer group of CEO’s. As the CEO you cannot go to the board of directors with a problem, you need to go with a solution. Likewise, you cannot expect “honest/open” input from your employees; they have their own agenda. It amazes me how practical, effective solutions to a challenge/opportunity are found when a group of very smart people help you find a solution. When your only “skin in the game” is to have your fellow member succeed the solutions will succeed.
When you have eight or more people, each with their own perspective, the options/solutions are more objective than with one or two advisors.
Bud Johnson's Vistage Blog 