To convey the spirit of the group requires adjectives like responsive, supportive, empathetic, stimulating, influential, and collegial. There is not a lot of formality in S.T.E.P., period. One representative described the meetings as feeling like a family gathered around the kitchen table, discussing the day's events and offering suggestions and support. Everyone knows each other, and more importantly, all respect each other's professionalism. S.T.E.P. exists to share non-proprietary information for the benefit of member organizations and their representatives' personal, professional development.
S.T.E.P. activities are an oasis from the office politics so prevalent in our everyday jobs.
In S.T.E.P. the focus is on mutual sharing. Finally, S.T.E.P. sustains high ethical standards. Representatives avoid divisive actions, respect confidentiality, and most importantly, value the diversity of the member companies and their representatives. Replicating the model requires an understanding of its essential features, plus the energy to bring together and maintain the momentum of a group of interested companies. Keep the size of the group small enough to assure that everyone can interact with everyone else.