Manager one-on-ones are crucial for building connections, providing support, and answering questions.
One-on-ones differ from other types of meetings as they are private, personal, and focused on individual needs and career progression.
The ideal structure for a one-on-one includes discussing direct reports' topics, providing feedback, and addressing career progression and challenges.
Deep dives
The importance and goals of manager one-on-ones
Manager one-on-ones are crucial for building connections, providing support, and answering questions. These meetings aim to build a connection with direct reports, answer their questions, and provide feedback and support. They also serve as a platform for discussing career progression and giving feedback confidentially. It is important for managers to create a safe and open environment to encourage direct reports to open up and share their thoughts and concerns.
Types of meetings and the unique nature of one-on-ones
One-on-ones differ from other types of meetings as they are private, not recorded, and intended to build connections and understand how direct reports are doing. Unlike status meetings or group settings, one-on-ones are personal, focusing on individuals' needs, questions, and career progression. These meetings can be an opportunity for direct reports to ask questions, seek guidance, and receive feedback confidentially. While other meetings may focus on specific projects or information sharing, one-on-ones are centered on individual growth and support.
Structuring an effective one-on-one
The ideal structure for a one-on-one consists of three parts. First, asking direct reports what they want to talk about, addressing their questions and concerns. Second, providing feedback, both positive and constructive, to help direct reports grow and improve. Finally, discussing career progression, performance, and addressing any upcoming challenges. The length of a one-on-one can vary, but 30 minutes to an hour is usually sufficient, depending on the needs and availability of both parties involved.
Overcoming challenges and fostering meaningful discussions
Challenges such as direct reports not opening up or expressing disinterest in one-on-ones can be addressed by building trust, creating a safe environment, and emphasizing the value of the meetings. Encouraging open and honest communication is essential. For managers with limited time, reducing the frequency of one-on-ones or finding alternative ways to connect with the team can be helpful. Offering specific feedback, engaging in two-way conversations, and setting clear goals and expectations can foster more meaningful discussions in one-on-ones.
Continuous improvement and adapting to hybrid work
Continuous improvement can be achieved by regularly seeking feedback from direct reports on the effectiveness of one-on-ones and adjusting the structure and content accordingly. In a hybrid work environment, additional effort may be required to check in on personal matters, build connections, and address the challenges faced by remote team members. Understanding the priorities and goals of direct reports, aligning them with one-on-one discussions, and maintaining a professional yet open atmosphere can help bridge gaps and foster a productive working relationship.
Vidal Graupera, an Engineering Manager at LinkedIn, speaks with SE Radio’s Brijesh Ammanath about the importance of managers' one-on-one meetings with direct reports. They start by considering how a 1:1 meeting differs from other meetings...
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