Manager Tips for 1on1 Conversations

Managers and employees need to stay connected and aligned with regular check-ins and performance conversations.

Here are some tips to guide managers in these conversations:

• Be intentional. One-on-one meetings should have a clear focus and agenda. Be intentional about what you discuss and how you present questions and feedback. Treat every meeting as an opportunity to build trust.
• Be personal. Tailor your discussions to each individual. Try to really understand who they are, what makes them tick, and what their concerns are.
• Be honest. It’s best to say what you mean and mean what you say. Be vulnerable with your employees—they know you’re not perfect. Share information as soon as you’re cleared to share it, and don’t be afraid to say, “I don’t know, but I’ll get back to you.”
• Be kind. Feedback is important, but it can be difficult to give and receive. Any response or feedback should come from a place of caring. Be considerate with your delivery in these conversations.
• Be clear. Some of your conversations will be uncomfortable, but you need to communicate clearly
  and confidently. The best way to do this is to plan for these conversations and understand the key
  messages you want to convey.
• Be present. It’s easy to be distracted, but do your best to stay focused on the other person. Turn off your phone, mute notifications, and be a good listener. Probe deeper with questions and listen actively.

Sample questions

Ah hoc conversation

• How are you feeling today?
• How are your family and friends?
• What questions can I answer?
• What are you focused on today?
• What’s been going well? What hasn’t?
• What’s gotten in your way?

Weekly progress update

• What’s going well with your current projects and tasks?
• What’s not going well with your current projects and tasks?
• What are your current priorities? Have they changed?
• How would you describe your current workload?
• What can I do to support you on your current projects and tasks?
• Do you have the materials, equipment, and technology you need to stay on track?
• What barriers or challenges do you have that I should be aware of?
• What flexibility (if any) do you need at this time?
• What additional resources do you need?
• What questions do you have about our recent team updates?
• Do you feel like you’re receiving clear, timely, and effective communication? How could it be better?
• What can I do to better support you?

Adapted from One-on-One Meeting Guide by Quantum Workplace

About our Survey Provider

The engagement surveys are conducted by Metrics@Work. Metrics@Work is a leading provider of organizational measurement and consulting. With core expertise in employee engagement, action, planning and organizational change, and leadership development, they help build and maintain productive, engaged workforces. Some of the major sectors served include: education, health.