The Methodology

How a Forum Works

A 60-minute structured session that transforms how people connect, learn, and grow together. Inspired by YPO and Vistage, refined for every level of your organization.

Anatomy of a 60-Minute Session

Every session follows a proven structure that creates safety, surfaces real issues, and drives meaningful action.

0-5 min

Check-In

Each member shares a brief personal and professional update. This builds connection and surfaces what is top of mind.

5-15 min

Issue Presentation

One member presents a real challenge they are facing -- a decision, a conflict, a growth opportunity. Raw and unfiltered.

15-25 min

Clarifying Questions

The group asks questions to fully understand the issue. No advice yet -- just deep, thoughtful inquiry to uncover root causes.

25-40 min

Experience Sharing

Members share relevant personal experiences -- not advice, but stories. 'When I faced something similar...' This is where collective wisdom emerges.

40-50 min

Action Commitments

The presenter reflects on what resonated and commits to specific actions. The group holds them accountable at the next session.

50-60 min

Reflection & Close

The group reflects on shared learnings, celebrates commitments, and the moderator captures key takeaways for the meeting summary.

Proven Methodology

Inspired by YPO. Built for everyone.

For over 70 years, the Young Presidents' Organization (YPO) has used peer forums to help CEOs navigate their toughest challenges. The results are legendary: deeper self-awareness, better decision-making, and lifelong bonds.

Forum@Work takes the core principles of this proven model -- structured dialogue, experience sharing over advice, confidentiality, and accountability -- and makes them accessible to every employee in your organization.

We do not water down the methodology. We scale it up, with technology-enabled facilitation, built-in moderator training, and real-time health tracking.

70+

Years of proven methodology

142

Countries using the model

35K+

CEOs transformed by YPO

100%

Now accessible to everyone

The Trust Foundation

Great forums are built on three non-negotiable principles that create the psychological safety required for real growth.

What is shared here, stays here

Every forum operates under strict confidentiality agreements. Members never discuss specifics outside the group. This is the foundation of trust.

No judgment, no hierarchy

Forums are deliberately composed of peers at similar levels but from different departments. No one reports to anyone else. Titles are left at the door.

Vulnerability is strength

The most powerful breakthroughs happen when members share what they are truly struggling with. The forum rewards honesty, not performance.

The Moderator

Every great forum has a great moderator

Moderators are trained facilitators -- not managers, not HR reps. They guide the conversation, ensure psychological safety, and keep the group on track. Forum@Work provides comprehensive training and ongoing coaching for every moderator.

  • Certified through our 40-hour training program
  • Guided by real-time AI coaching during sessions
  • Access to a global moderator community
  • Ongoing development with quarterly master classes

92%

Session effectiveness

With a trained moderator vs. unmoderated groups

3x

Deeper conversations

Moderators ensure every voice is heard equally

40h

Training included

Comprehensive moderator certification program

Ready to bring peer forums to your organization?

See the methodology in action with a live demo tailored to your company.