A Practical Structure for More Effective 1-1 Meetings
Scenario
An important part of managing a team is checking in with team members and understanding the tasks they are doing so they are given the appropriate support to do their best work. The best way to do this is to have one-to-one meetings with them.
The Challenge
The meetings weren’t helping team members feel supported, and as a leader I was not aware of what they were doing. I realised that a structured approach would be needed. A structure would ensure that all points were discussed, and both them and I were left with clarity on the tasks they were doing.
The Turning Point
I created a simple framework for 1-1s that focused on checking in with the tasks they were doing and discussed any potential bottlenecks that could be addressed. Now 1-1 meetings follow a clear approach.
Workflow
Tasks: List the tasks they are doing. Discuss any new tasks they are doing. Make brief notes.
Check in: For each task, discuss and make brief notes of how they are managing the task. Ask if there are any bottlenecks and if so discuss ways these could be addressed.
Updates: Discuss any key wins since the last meeting.
Development: Discuss any feedback or if they would like any further training.
Open floor: Time for anything else they want to bring up.
Meeting minutes: Send the notes to the team member after the meeting.
Impact
Team members feel heard, supported, and motivated.
Conversations became richer, more focused, and more personal.
I leave with a clearer picture of what they are doing and how to help them succeed.