Download FREE 1:1 cheat sheet
1:1 is the basic and most important tool as a manager. It’s the oil of the relationship.
The main purpose is to get to know them to build trust and rapport. Other benefits are removing blockers, align on priority, giving feedback and more.
It is for your direct report (you can always ask for their time when you need it).
Before
Schedule a weekly 30 minutes meeting, that is rarely canceled or rescheduled.
Before the very first 1:1, explain the purpose to the direct report and ask them to come prepared with their topics. Insist that it’s mandatory and there are benefits to them.
You can create a shared document (e.g. google doc) for topics from both of you, or use paper and pen.
Take notes about decisions, tasks, things to follow up on next time, and info shared with you.
Prepare: disconnect from previous meetings and events of the day, close distractions (Slack, email, phone). Have notes from last time (paper or digital).
Structure
The frame (times can be more flexible):
- The first 20 minutes are for their topics, anything they want: work, life, spouse, children, etc.
- Last 10 minutes are for your topics.
After
- Thank them for the time
- Think whether you need more than 30 minutes next time.
- Create tasks on your calendar to follow up
Before you download, I’d love to know:
