Beyond the One-on-One

Phil LeNir introduces peer coaching groups as a scalable development method, rooted in Henry Mintzberg’s concept that management is a practice learned through reflection on experience in light of conceptual ideas. These groups (4–6 participants) use guidebooks to structure dialogues around real work challenges, fostering peer accountability and a sense of belonging called "communityship". Programs are designed using the Five Mindsets framework (Reflective, Analytical, Worldly, Collaborative, Action-oriented) to shift focus from acquiring skills to developing broad capacities needed for managing complexity. A case study at Fujitsu SSL demonstrated that this approach significantly improved managerial practices and organizational collaboration.