1×1 meetings, when done right, can drive both personal growth and company success. Here’s why you should do them and how to make the most of them:
- BETTER ALIGNMENT: Foster alignment between managers and their direct reports, ensuring everyone is moving in the same direction.
- BETTER PRODUCTIVITY: By addressing issues and providing guidance in 1x1s, productivity increases, as employees are empowered and well-supported.
- BETTER RELATIONSHIPS: These meetings build trust and stronger relationships, which are essential for team cohesion and job satisfaction.
- PERSONAL GROWTH: 1x1s help direct reports take control of their professional development, with managers as guides.
- EFFICIENT PROBLEM SOLVING: Address challenges promptly in 1x1s, which can prevent larger issues from arising.
Tips for Hosting Effective 1×1 Meetings:
- ALWAYS SHOW UP
- Hold 60-minute meetings every other week
- Keep things informal, change the setting
- Never cancel – it shows commitment
- LET THEM SPEAK
- Listen 80% of the time
- Structure: 15 min on goals, 30 min on their agenda, 15 min for your input
- Use the last 15 min for praise and constructive feedback
- FOSTER OPEN DIALOGUE
- Encourage honest conversations
- Seek feedback on your managerial performance
- Ask questions like “How can I help you?” and “Is there anything you’d like to know about the business?”
