One meeting is common across all companies I work with – and that is the 1-to-1.
In a fast-paced business world, this vital time together presents the opportunity to slow down and communicate at a more personal level. If you can increase the effectiveness of 1-to-1’s you strengthen the bonds of trust and loyalty with your team. In contrast, fail to give these meetings the attention they deserve and you increase the disconnect between you and them.
So, how do you make sure you’re making your 1-to-1’s all they can be? Here are some top tips.
1. Do your homework
Well before the meeting, learn about a direct report’s previous weekend and future travel plans. Of course, the key is to be sincerely interested in people, and not to just “check the box.”
Other conversational topics include big wins from the previous week and current news around the office.
2. Give ownership to the employee
It’s important to remember that this is the employee’s meeting. They should be responsible for providing the agenda (maximum five points).
You can add to the agenda if needed–but as the leader it’s your responsibility to find time to discuss their points sufficiently.
3. Listen first
Some managers tend to dominate the conversation in 1-to-1. However, by going in with a “listen first” mentality, you gain a new perspective and make sure any coaching is well directed. In addition, you give them the chance to air any grievances.
4. It’s all about trust
This should go without saying, but it’s vital that managers never share personal information without the express consent of the person involved. If this trust is broken, it may be impossible to recover.
Additionally, the importance of follow-up can’t be overemphasized. This is true of any meeting, but especially of a one-to-one. The quicker you act upon the individual’s requests (I suggest within 24 hours if possible), the more valuable the 1-to-1 meeting becomes.
5. Make it exciting!
It’s easy for one-to-ones to become monotonous. It’s your challenge to keep that from happening.
Instead of just having a discussion, how about using a whiteboard? Make your team member’s narrative visual to help him or her think through what needs to be accomplished.
It’s also important to get away whenever possible. Can you schedule your meeting on a rooftop? How about another unexpected location?
