Conducting 1 to 1s
Build Strong Relationships and Identify Future Superstars
In this article, we’ll focus on 1 to 1s, which provide a key opportunity every week (yes, every week) to engage with your staff on a deep, personal level. As a manager, you can have a tremendous impact on the performance and lives of your staff by doing 1 to 1s mindfully and to a high standard. Simply doing them isn’t difficult, but doing them well is an area that requires consistent focus.
When and Where
Cadence and regularity are key in these meetings. Book them in at the same time and place each week and commit to them. Do not move a 1 to 1 meeting unless absolutely necessary. Having a scheduled regular touchpoint brings predictability to your relationship and shows that you care about being there for your direct report week in, week out.
Hold the meetings in a private room — this point is critical. Do not hold 1 to 1s in a public area in the office, such as the breakout area or at the employee’s desk. Holding meetings in a public area prevents any private conversation from occurring and may even make your direct report feel like you would rather not hear what they have to say — and you absolutely want to. The same observation is true for managers who take their 1 to 1s outside the building to a nearby coffee shop. As nice as…
