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Your first 1:1 meeting

Journeys

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As you start your one-on-ones with your team, take the chance to build a solid foundation for your working relationship. Use this time to understand your team — creating an environment for their best performance.

Encourage your direct reports to share insights that can inform norms regarding working styles, communication preferences, and other relevant aspects.

Here are a few questions you can use to frame this:

  • What conditions do you like to work in? (e.g., quiet environment, etc.)
  • What is the best way to communicate with you?
  • How do you like to receive feedback?
  • How do you learn best?
  • What do you need from your manager?
  • How can I best support you and our team in achieving goals and performance targets?
  • What would you like to know about me?

We also recommend that you reach out to your team members a few days prior to your meeting to introduce yourself and share what will be discussed in the meeting.

Things to consider:

  • Customize these questions to your company values and culture.
  • Include any resources the manager might need to help conduct these first meetings.

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