4 Comments

I would add that 1-on-1 meetings are a great chance to do regular update about achievements. I usually use the meeting document as my brag list, and it would be very useful for my personal reflection and during performance review.

It’s also a good chance to manage up. Manage the manager’s expectations and align the direction. It’s more about taking control of our own career. If we don’t do that, managers will need to step in and take control of us.

Expand full comment

Two solid points! If you want control of your career, the 1:1 with your manager is the most effective way to make that happen.

Expand full comment

Some of my favorites if you want more:

What skills do you want to develop this quarter? How can I help you?

Are there any stretch projects you’d like to take on?

Where do you see yourself in 1-3 years, and how can we set a path to get there?

What’s one challenge you’re currently facing? How can I support you in addressing it?

Is there anything slowing you down or frustrating you about your work?

What’s a recurring problem we should brainstorm solutions for?

Do you feel clear on your priorities? Is there anything you need me to clarify?

How does our team’s work connect directly to the company’s goals?

Is there anything about our team processes that isn’t working for you?

Is there something I’m doing—or not doing—that’s making your job harder?

How would you like to receive feedback from me? Does my approach work for you?

What’s something I can do to improve as your manager?

Expand full comment

These are awesome, thanks for sharing! Each quarter we practice doing a "quarterly" where we ask the bigger questions. Folks are always welcome to bring these big picture questions to regular 1:1s, but that once a quarter checkin ensures we're focusing on their career, the big picture, etc.

Expand full comment