Most 1-on-1s should be an email. 7 simple tips to make yours worth the time:
1-on-1s are a staple of work life. At their best, they’re highly valuable. At their worst, they: • Lack focus • Lack intention • Become long-winded status updates I’ve had many good ones (and bad ones). Here are 7 tips to help make yours better:
1. Consider the time 1-on-1s can be high-ROI time. But only if you’re ready to engage. Don’t cram them between 7 other meetings. Pick a time when it’s easier to be present. I like mornings. Others prefer later afternoon. Find what works best for you.
2. Set a clear purpose Good 1-on-1s have a clear agenda. They also have a defined purpose. Example purposes: • Brainstorm a solution • Discuss development • Unpack wins and lessons Whatever it is, make it clear. If you achieve the purpose, it is likely time well spent.
3. Share context ahead of time Sharing early context goes a long way. • Why do you want to discuss [X]? • What brought this topic up for you? • What do you want from the discussion? Educate before the meeting. It'll save time and ensure you both arrive on the same page.
4. Tell people how to prepare Be explicit in how to prepare for the 1-on-1. Should the other person: • Come with ideas? • Read an article beforehand? • Think about something specific? People want to be prepared. Help them do that by clearly telling them how.
5. Send status updates early Send updates in writing before the 1-on-1. Status updates likely don’t require discussion, so don’t take up time on them. Your meeting time should be for discussion. Leveraging written updates will free up a lot of time for valuable conversation.
6. Review documents beforehand If a productive discussion requires reviewing documents, review them before the meeting. Nothing derails a 1-on-1 like needing to pause to bring someone up to speed. I know Amazon starts meetings by reading memos. That’s great. Come prepared.
7. Set action items or building blocks You've had a productive 1-on-1. Now end it with action items or building blocks. Action items: specific tasks you'll do after the meeting (eg. send an email). Building blocks: intentions you want to carry forward (eg. prepare better).
7 tips to make your 1-on-1s better: • Set a clear purpose • Tell people how to prepare • Share context ahead of time • Review documents beforehand • Send status updates beforehand • Consider the time of your 1-on-1s • Set action items or building blocks
I hope this makes you better. Here's a 1-sheeter if you want to share with your team: https://t.co/q52kIblya5 If this was valuable: 1. Follow me @TMitrosilis for more on personal improvement 2. RT the tweet below to share with others
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