1-on-1 meetings are a powerful tool for managers and employees to connect regularly, build trust, and align on goals.
This guide will provide an overview of 1-on-1 meetings, their benefits, best practices, and examples of how to make the most of this time investment.
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What are 1-on-1 Meetings?
1-on-1 meetings are recurring, scheduled meetings between a manager and an employee.
These meetings provide a private space to discuss topics relevant to the employee’s work and growth.
1-on-1s are driven by the employee, with the manager listening and providing guidance.
Benefits of 1-on-1 Meetings
1-on-1 meetings offer many advantages for managers and employees:
- Build trust and increase communication – Frequent 1-on-1s foster open communication and strengthen the relationship.
- Coaching and feedback – Managers can provide targeted coaching and feedback to help employees develop.
- Align on goals – 1-on-1s enable managers and employees to set goals and track progress.
- Spot problems early – Managers can identify and resolve issues before they escalate.
- Increase job satisfaction – Employees feel more supported and invested in their work.
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How to Hold Effective 1-on-1 Meetings
Follow these 10 best practices to get the most out of 1-on-1s:
- Schedule consistently – Set a recurring cadence, such as weekly or biweekly. Consistency builds habit.
- Set an agenda – Outline key topics to cover for each meeting. Share agenda ahead of time.
- Listen actively – Let the employee drive the conversation. Listen without interrupting.
- Ask open-ended questions – Avoid yes/no questions. Ask “what if” and “how” to prompt discussion.
- Give feedback – Provide specific, timely praise and constructive criticism.
- Set goals and track progress – Define development goals and review progress over time.
- Make it employee-driven – Keep 1-on-1s focused on the employee’s needs, not just project updates.
- Avoid distractions – Don’t answer emails or take calls during the meeting. Be present.
- Take notes – Document key discussion points, action items, and follow-ups.
- Follow up – Revisit action items and commitments in the next meeting.
1-on-1 Meeting Examples
Here are 5 examples of effective 1-on-1 meetings in action:
- Career development discussion – Manager and employee review long-term career goals and identify skills to develop.
- Coaching on presentation skills – Manager provides feedback on recent presentation and coaches employee on improvements.
- Brainstorming new project ideas – Employee shares proposals for new projects and manager provides input.
- Goal-setting for next quarter – Manager and employee align on specific metrics and milestones to hit for Q3.
- Addressing performance issues – Manager expresses concerns about missed deadlines and creates a plan to get back on track.
Summary
1-on-1 meetings provide a simple yet powerful way for managers and employees to connect.
By meeting consistently, listening, providing feedback, and aligning on goals, 1-on-1s enable continuous development, improved performance, and stronger working relationships.
Following the best practices outlined above will lead to productive, engaging 1-on-1s.
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With 30+ years of experience, Catherine Fitzgerald, B.A., M.A., PGDip, founded Oak Innovation in 1995. Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from University College Cork. She holds qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. She is completing a second Master’s from University College Cork. Since 1995, clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.
