Networking groups provide refuge for CEOs.

Abstract

The competitive spirit that dominated health care in the latter half of the 1980s isolated many CEOs from their peers. CEOs of competing hospitals felt that they couldn't talk openly with each other, problems were solved in isolation, and stress levels climbed. But CEOs have found a way to exchange ideas with other executives: informal networking groups. But one of the most important aspects of these meetings is that they're fun. They offer CEOs a chance to relax and talk frankly with others about mutual problems and how to solve them. These informal network groups also help younger executives, who are often invited to audit the meetings. Younger executives get a chance to see different management styles and new approaches to problem solving.