DialogLab
Effective 1:1 meetings
Run one-on-ones that build trust: agenda, questions, and difficult topics - with practice scenarios for managers.
Most 1:1s become project stand-ups because managers fear silence. The best 1:1s balance progress, obstacles, development, and relationship - with the report owning much of the agenda.
Why it matters
Employees leave managers, not companies. Consistent, honest 1:1s surface problems early and make hard conversations easier because trust already exists.
Common mistakes
- Canceling 1:1s when busy
- Only talking about your priorities
- No notes or follow-through on commitments
- Saving all feedback for annual review
A practical approach
- Shared agenda 24h ahead
Both add topics. Their items come first.
- Ask one development question
“What skill do you want to grow this quarter?”
- Name one thing going well
Specific praise builds openness for harder topics.
- End with clear actions
Who does what by when - you included.
GROW in 15 minutes
Use GROW for development threads: Goal for growth, Reality today, Options to learn, Will - what they commit to this month. Keeps 1:1s forward-looking.
Before you meet
- Review last meeting notes
- Prepare one piece of feedback if needed
- Protect the calendar slot
Practise before the real conversation
Practise a development-focused 1:1 - voice replies help you sound natural, not scripted.