Morgan Kuwashima, Community Manager

Have you ever wondered how some people seem to have an insider’s track on career progression, gaining opportunities and knowledge far quicker than their peers? The secret might just be their involvement in professional peer groups. These groups offer a treasure trove of benefits not just for the individuals involved, but also for their employers. Bespoke has recognized the value of our network and these types of communities to foster success among its placed executives.

Within the private equity space, we are seeing a greater drive to foster communities and groups. Job postings are usually early indicators for new roles gaining popularity, and in this case, it has proven to be true. 

In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Community Manager positions are projected to increase around ten percent from 2022 to 2032. LinkedIn shows even shorter-term gains, showing an eight percent increase in Community manager job postings from March to April alone.

The Dual Benefits of Professional Peer Groups

At its core, a professional peer group consists of individuals from the same or similar industries who gather (in person or online) to share information, support each other, and push each other towards personal and professional growth. For the individual, the advantages are manifold. Exposure to new information and cutting-edge practices in the field can propel one’s knowledge and skills exponentially. For instance, a Chief Revenue Officer in a peer group with other GTM (Go-to-Market) leaders across the US can learn about emerging CRM technologies and sales trends far before they become mainstream. For Bespoke, our placements are all at the executive level, driving value creation for sponsor-backed software and SaaS companies. All of whom have encountered similar problems or challenges in their roles.

From an employer’s perspective, the benefits are equally compelling. Employees active in peer groups often bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the table, directly boosting the company’s competitive advantage. Bespoke has placed more than 1,000 operators across more than 300 different sponsors’ portfolio companies, providing opportunities for these executives to share ideas across different portfolios and encourage diversity of thought.

Moreover, these leaders can tap into their peer networks for vendor recommendations or client leads, which might otherwise cost the company considerable time and resources to acquire. A simple conversation within a peer group can lead to a real-world, strategic partnership or a resource-saving piece of advice, demonstrating the tangible value these groups offer to employers.

Maximizing Online Peer Group Engagement

To truly extract value from online peer groups, there are several strategies leaders can employ. First, consistency is key. Regular participation in discussions and events helps build trust and establishes your reputation as a committed member. It is not enough to simply join a group; active engagement is what helps you reap the benefits. In-person events can also help break the ice and foster relationships so it is easier to spur online engagement.

Second, approach your interactions with a balance of giving and taking.

While it’s important to seek advice and insights, offering your own expertise and resources makes the relationship reciprocal and enriches the group experience. By helping others, you increase the likelihood of assistance when you need it.

Boosting Your Personal Brand Through Contribution

Contributing to a professional peer group does more than just enhance your knowledge—it significantly boosts your personal brand. When you share insightful articles, participate in discussions, or present on topics of expertise, you position yourself as a thought leader in your field. This visibility can lead to invitations to speak at industry conferences, write for professional publications, or contribute to collaborative projects, each of which serves to further solidify your professional reputation.

The dynamics of professional growth are evolving, and professional peer groups are at the forefront of this evolution. By participating actively and contributing to these groups, both employees and employers can experience significant benefits. Not only do these groups provide a platform for continuous learning and connection, but they also enhance one’s visibility and influence within the industry. If you’re not yet part of a professional peer group, now is the perfect time to explore this opportunity. For those already involved, remember that the key to success lies in active participation and generous contribution. Harness the power of your professional community and watch as doors begin to open in ways you never anticipated.

Learn more at www.bespokepartners.com