Unlock your career's potential with effective 1:1 meetings

When it comes to professional growth, one question often looms large

What should I discuss in my 1:1 meetings? I often have nothing beyond project updates.

This is a common concern, and it's crucial to recognise that a 1:1 meeting is more than just a status update session. It's an opportunity to connect with your manager, discuss your progress, and express your thoughts and concerns.

How to Effectively Prepare for a 1:1

Preparation is key to making the most of your 1:1 meetings. Not only does it demonstrate professionalism, but it also maximises the value of your time.

Taking notes during(or just after) the 1:1 is pivotal for several reasons. It demonstrates active engagement, aids in retaining essential points, and serves as a reference for future discussions. You can easily look at your notes and if for example, you havent spoken about professional growth for a while, you can focus on those questions in the next 1:1.

I like to have at least 3-5 prepared topics using the questions below as prompts.

Review Previous Meeting

• Have I made any progress on the action items from the last 1:1?
• Are there any action items from the last 1:1 that I need to follow up with my supervisor?

Brief Project Updates

Limit project updates to 1 or 2 minutes unless it's the primary focus. Remember, 1:1s aren't project status meetings.

• Is the project status on or off track?
• Are there any noteworthy highlights or progress updates (that were not already covered in standups or elsewhere)?

Share Wins

• What were my key achievements since the last 1:1? Highlight accomplishments that have moved me or the team forward.
• What went exceptionally well?

Identify Challenges

• Are there any decisions I can't make independently and require input?
• Are there current issues I want to see resolved in the coming months?
• Are there any interpersonal tensions with colleagues that I would like to address proactively?
• Are there aspects of team dynamics that concern me?
• What could have gone better?

Discuss Career Growth and Professional Development

• Share any feedback I have received from colleagues or clients.
• Are there any opportunities I am interested in?
• Am I happy with my current project?
• Do I feel like I’m learning? Are there things I feel like I’m not learning that I would like to?
• Request feedback on recent projects or tasks and inquire about areas for improvement. (Note: It's often better to ask for feedback immediately after an event, as waiting until the 1:1 might be too late.)
• Explore which skills I should focus on developing for my current role and future roles.
• Ask what I could do differently or what behaviours my supervisor doesn't appreciate.
• Inquire about anything I should start doing or stop doing.

Flip the Conversation

• Find out my supervisor's top priorities.
• Ask about any concerns or worries regarding the team.
• Explore how I can better support my supervisor.

Backup Questions

Use this section only when there's nothing else to discuss, and there's time.

• Share any interesting updates, lessons, or personal achievements.

Share Your 1:1 Experiences and Tips

Navigating 1:1 meetings might seem daunting initially, but effective preparation, thoughtful questions, and diligent follow-ups can help make it easier. Remember, there's no such thing as a perfect 1:1 meeting.

We're all on a learning journey, and your experiences and tips are invaluable. Have you discovered other effective ways to prepare for 1:1s? Are there additional questions that have proven helpful for you? How do you ensure you follow up on action items?

Share your experiences and insights in the comments below.