Good managers have regular 1:1 meetings with their team members, but it isn’t always easy to crack the code on how to do these meetings well. They have to be more than just a checkbox on your weekly to-do list, and they can be your ticket to building stronger relationships and understanding your team.
Remember when you were younger and had those heart-to-heart talks with a mentor or friend? This is the professional version of that.
We’ve all been in those meetings where you zone out because it feels like a complete waste of time. Let’s avoid that! Instead, we’re aiming for those golden moments where you both leave feeling connected, inspired, and with a clear sense of direction. So, how do you achieve that?
Here’s your blueprint:
- Commit to the Time: Life’s busy, I get it. But avoid canceling these meetings. (Of course, if life throws a curveball, reschedule.)
- Ditch the Updates: Save the “status updates” for emails, Kanban boards, and shared documentation. This is your chance to dive into feedback & advice, and get into the nitty-gritty.
- It’s a Two-Way Street: Encourage your team members to bring their own topics, but don’t expect them to do all the heavy lifting. This isn’t a monologue, it’s a dialogue.
- Talk Futures: Dig into career goals. Where do they see themselves? How can you help?
- The Mighty Pen: Definitely take notes! Unless you’re a savant, your memory isn’t as good as you think!
- Action Beats Intentions: Every conversation should have a clear next step and agreement on who will do what by when, for what purpose.
- Walk a Mile: Always, always try to see things from their perspective.
And when you’re getting ready for your next one-on-one? Keep these in your back pocket:
- Have an Aim: What’s the point of this chat? Be it brainstorming, feedback, or just catching up, know what you and they want to get out of it.
- Come prepared! Review your notes from last time. Recall what they’re working on and the challenges they’ve faced. Take a look at those spots where status updates can be found. The more ready you are, the better things will go.
- Listen Up: Really hear them out. Ask questions, dive deep, and be present.
- Seal the Deal: After you’re done, loop back. A quick recap email (who’s doing what by when for what purpose) or a brief chat ensures everyone’s on the same page.
By injecting some purpose and authenticity into your one-on-ones, they’ll transform from mundane to meaningful. Think of them as regular tune-ups to keep your team relationships in peak condition. Happy chatting!
