I've been reading a wonderful book about “everyday companies that become extraordinary performers”. Based on a 5 year, 7000 company study, one of the components that surprised the authors was that most of the leaders erected scaffolding’ for their company – external structures that enable the company to get to the next level. He talked about the way these structures work and the benefits they provided, and he highlighted the power of ongoing networks of peers who provide:

* Support - someone to lean on
* Perspective - another set of eyes
* New ideas - finding experts
* New tools - raising the game
* Accountability - turning up the heat

This is of course the logic behind NBCoach (and for that matter, coaching in general). But what I would add is the need for it to be regular, not just when you think you need it. The really successful people don't wait until they've got a problem before they go looking for a solution. They're open to better ways of doing things all the time. The real value of a programme or a great coach is that they're bringing you ideas, whether you are looking for them or not. The limitation of most coaches is that they are helping you solve today's problems rather than helping you create possibilities for tomorrow. At one level, you can go on solving the problems that confront you without really developing your business. Venture Capitalists call it "polishing the turd" (they have a way with words those people).

Sometimes the path to growth lies at a higher level, which is difficult to see when you're in the trenches. One of my favourite quotes is from Einstein: "you cannot solve a problem at the level it presents". For example, the problem might not be that you can't find good people, it's that you're not marketing the role or your company in a way that attracts the kind of people you want.

As I develop NBCoach, I will be mindful to ensure that it harnesses the power of peer networks. As I reflect on the successes I've had in my life and business, and the times that I've come through challenging situations, it's been the detached perspective offered by my closest network that has enabled me to succeed beyond what i would have been able to achieve on my own.  My good friend Kevin Dawkins says that the 5 most powerful words in the world are, "Can you help me please?"

My objective is for NBCoach to provide the same peer network experience that breakthrough companies get. I've had some great discussions with people about what that looks like, and launched a pilot on the North Shore. More on the Peer Network offer very soon
And here's a question for you: who do you turn to when you need a detached perspective? What's your process for getting new ideas and accountability?