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Better One-on-One Meetings
More effective one-on-ones start here
Watch the video above then dig into the details below. Download a 1:1 tracking template or some sample meeting questions, and start holding better meetings today.
A different kind of meeting
Unlike most of your work meetings, holding one-on-one meetings with your team can be more about building a connection and shared understanding than about the business you both work for.
Relationship building
While other meetings can be dominated by urgent projects, status updates, or more outgoing colleagues, regular one-on-one conversations allow for relationship building and a shared level of trust.
Get to know each other
You work with empathetic, emotionally intelligent team members. As you better understand their minds and lives, you can help them unlock the behaviors and attitudes needed to deliver exceptional service.
The do’s of 1:1s
Listen first
You have the power in the relationship, and anything you say has more weight. Leave space and time for them to speak.
Keep an agenda
A shared document can remind each of you what you intended to discuss, in case you are sidetracked by children, cats, or anything else.
Remain flexible
A structure is a helpful guide to return to, but be open to shifting to suit the needs of the moment.
Prioritize psychological safety
Invest the time to create a relationship where your team can be open and honest with you, without fear of reprisal.
Keep an eye on the long term
Be intentional about regularly discussing their long term goals, plans, dreams, and direction.
Give feedback
Avoid review-time surprises by regularly sharing feedback about their performance, good or bad.
...and the do not’s
Skip one-on-ones
Whenever possible, stick to your agreed rhythm.
Use it as a status meeting
Keep general updates for asynchronous documents or team meetings.
Overstuff it
Your one-on-one does not need to handle every possible discussion. You can schedule other meetings with them on specific topics.
Lecture
It should always be a two way conversation, not an information download.
Focus on yourself
You should share openly, but remember this is not your meeting, it is theirs.
Force it
Some people are naturally more private and reticent than others. Work with people as they are, not as you might prefer them to be.
Helpful questions to ask your direct reports in one-on-one meetings
Whether you’re looking for a good way to get into a deeper chat, or just need a topic to get you going on a slow morning, we’ve got you covered with a variety of starter questions for your one-on-ones.
Sample one-on-one shared document
A simple shared document is a great place for you and your team member to keep track of things you want to bring up, record action items, and keep track of ongoing issues.
One-on-one meeting notes
Adding just a little structure to your meeting notes can help keep you on track, and remind you of items to follow up on. Start with our template, then make it your own.
