Lean In Circles are a simple idea with a big impact. They give women a space to build each other up, share what they’ve learned, and go after what they want without apology.
What are Lean In Circles?
At their core, Circles are small peer groups. Think 8 to 12 people who meet regularly to learn, swap advice, and back each other in. It might be online. It might be over coffee. What matters is the consistency and the trust that builds over time.
There’s a reason they’ve taken off. More than 100,000 people across 183 countries have started a Circle. That tells you something. When women come together with a shared goal, things move.
You may like to keep in mind the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
Company-based Circles take it a step further. They create space for honest conversations at work. They help break down bias and open up opportunities. And they make inclusion something people feel, not just read about in a policy.
The Lean In network supports this through a few key programs. Circles are the heart of it. Then there are company programs, research, and Lean In Girls. You might have seen resources like “50 Ways to Fight Bias”. These are practical, grounded, and designed to be used, not just bookmarked.
How do Lean In Circles work?
Each month, the group picks a topic from the Lean In library. It could be building confidence, handling tough conversations, or thinking bigger about your career.
The session usually starts with quick check-ins. Then you move on to the topic. You’ll finish with one action to take forward. Something small but intentional.
Leadership isn’t fixed. Some Circles co-lead. Others rotate the role. Everyone gets a chance to guide the discussion, which keeps things fresh and shared.
Why Circles Work?
People learn better in small groups where everyone has a voice. Not in big meetings where you sit back and listen. The share participation allows everyone to have a seat at the table.
Peer mentorship builds confidence. It turns “I’m not sure” into “I’ll give it a go”. Over time, those conversations help to foster motivation and build expertise. This can lead to long-lasting relationships.
There’s also something powerful about connection. Research shows when people connect around shared goals or interests, it can lead to stronger engagement, collaboration and a deeper sense of belonging.
Lean In principles
Each Circle builds on a few simple principles to create a space of trust.
- Confidentiality matters. What’s shared in the group stays there. That’s what makes it safe to speak openly.
- Compassion matters. You listen. You see different perspectives. You don’t jump straight to judgement.
- Communication matters. Everyone gets space. Participants are encouraged to listen with intent and without interruptions and distractions.
- Commitment matters. You show up and stay present. You invest in the group, not just yourself.
My first Lean In Circle was welcoming and encouraging. We heard about the program in a Zoom session, then moved into smaller breakout groups. No pressure. Just introductions, a few guided questions, and one action each for the next 30 days. I met three other like-minded women with different occupations and backgrounds.
The conversation cards helped and gave us a starting point. But the real value came from what followed. People shared honestly. Everyone was listening properly (nobody was checking their phones or doing work on the sly).
That’s the magic of Lean In Circles. It’s consistent and intentional connection.
