The Transformative Power of Peer Group Mentoring for General Counsels

My Journey into Peer Group Mentoring

In 2005, I was serving as General Counsel of a midcap public company when I received an invitation that would quietly change my life. It was an invite to join a peer mentoring group for female General Counsels in the Boston area.

Back then, everything was in person—no Zoom links or Teams meetings. I remember walking into that first session, unsure of what to expect. There were seven other women in the room, each accomplished and busy, probably just as uncertain as I was about what we were doing there.

We sat in a circle and introduced ourselves one by one. We talked about our jobs, our companies, and a bit about what had brought us there. It was polite, slightly formal, and, frankly, a little tentative. But something shifted by the time we met for our second session.

Building Trust and Connection

We began to open up. There was a growing sense of trust in the room. We started sharing what was really going on—not just in our careers, but in our lives. Many of us were juggling intense professional roles with the demands of raising families. We spoke honestly about the pressure, the guilt, and the uncertainty. And we listened to each other. Fully.

Over the six months that followed, we created something rare: a confidential space where we could be vulnerable, ask for help, and offer support without judgment. This environment made a significant difference in our lives.

Life-Changing Decisions

By the end of the program, three of the eight of us had made meaningful, even life-changing, decisions. Whether it was changing jobs, setting new boundaries, or just giving ourselves permission to want something different—those changes were directly tied to the honest conversations we had in that room.

Years later, I still carry a deep sense of gratitude for that experience. Those women helped me through a difficult chapter, and I hope I was able to do the same for them. Peer mentoring didn’t just give me advice; it gave me connection, perspective, and strength.

The Importance of Vulnerability

Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but in the context of peer mentoring, it becomes a powerful tool for growth. When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we create space for authentic connections. This is especially important for General Counsels who often face unique challenges in their roles.

In our mentoring group, we learned that sharing our struggles made us stronger. It fostered a sense of community and understanding that is hard to find elsewhere. We were able to discuss our fears and aspirations openly, which helped us navigate our careers with more confidence.

Embracing Change

Change can be daunting, but it is also an opportunity for growth. The decisions we made during our mentoring sessions were not just about our careers; they were about embracing change in our lives. We learned to view change as a positive force rather than something to fear.

The support we offered each other during this process was invaluable. It reminded us that we are not alone in our journeys. The insights gained from these discussions continue to influence my approach to challenges today.

The Ripple Effect of Mentoring

The impact of peer mentoring extends beyond the individuals involved. When we support one another, we create a ripple effect that can transform entire organizations. As General Counsels, we have the power to influence our companies' cultures and practices.

By fostering a culture of support and mentorship within our organizations, we can help others navigate their own challenges. This not only benefits individual employees but also strengthens the organization as a whole.

Conclusion: Say Yes to Peer Mentoring

If you ever have the chance to join a peer mentoring group—especially one that brings together people who understand the challenges you're facing—I encourage you to say yes. You never know what might happen when people come together and choose to be real with each other.

Peer mentoring can be a transformative experience. It offers a unique opportunity to connect, grow, and support one another in our professional journeys. Embrace the chance to be part of a community that fosters growth and understanding. You might just find that it changes your life, as it did mine.

---wix---