Managing 1-on-1s

TechExec Week 15 - Wednesday Edition

Author

Gaurav Singh
July 19, 2023

(Total read time: 3 minutes)

Hey there,

Welcome to Week 15 of TechExec - the newsletter that turbocharges your growth to become a Tech Executive!

As always, we are sharing a new set of BLTs this week

  • 💼 B - a Business concept / theory / story

  • 💝 L - a lifestyle advice

  • 🤖 T - a Tech explainer

Here is the schedule:

Monday —>💼 B - a Business concept / theory / story

Wednesday —> 💝 L - a lifestyle advice

Friday —> 🤖 T - a Tech explainer

This week we covered Leveraged Buyouts on Monday, and we will cover Cohort Analysis on Friday.

Today’s lifestyle advice is on Managing 1-on-1s!

💼 L - Managing 1-on-1s

Let’s think for a second: How do your 1-on-1s usually go? Do people go through a task list, checking off items and adding more to the queue? If this sounds like your 1-on-1 meetings, I feel sorry for you. But this is far more common than you might think.

1-on-1 meetings are like an awkward dance where two individuals perform the tango of corporate communication.

If done correctly, both parties come out feeling understood and valued, along with newfound clarity about their roles in the company. If done incorrectly, it can feel like a clumsy mosh pit of miscommunication and discomfort. So how do we design an amazing 1-on-1 experience?

First things first, let's talk about the setting. This isn't a disciplinary hearing, so there's no need for a stark, cold room with a single light bulb hanging ominously from the ceiling. Instead, opt for a comfortable and informal setting. Think coffee shops or a quiet corner in the office. The goal is to create an environment where both parties can talk freely without fear of being overheard or interrupted.

Now that you have your setting sorted, let's move on to the agenda. Yes, you need one. This isn't an impromptu catch-up or a chance to gossip about a co-worker’s questionable fashion choices. This is an opportunity for constructive conversation and feedback. Both parties should provide each other with the agenda ahead of time so they know what to expect and can prepare accordingly.

As a manager, your role is to ask thoughtful questions and listen. Yes, listen. You cannot know what your employee is thinking or feeling unless you ask and then actually listen to their responses. From an employee's perspective, this is your chance to voice any concerns, share ideas, or ask for support. Remember that this isn't a one-sided conversation, though. Your manager may also have feedback or suggestions for you, and it's important to listen and take these on board.

1-on-1 meetings are not meant to be a battle of wits or a power play. They are an opportunity for open and honest communication between two individuals who are working towards the same goal. So next time you find yourself dreading that upcoming 1-on-1 meeting, remember these tips and go forth with confidence!

Takeaway: A 1-on-1 meeting should be collaborative and empowering experience, not a power struggle. Create a comfortable and informal setting, like a coffee shop or a cozy office corner, where open communication can flourish. Prioritize the agenda to make it purposeful and constructive, ensuring both parties are prepared for a fruitful exchange. As a manager, listen intently to your employees' thoughts and concerns, and as an employee, use this opportunity to share ideas and ask for support. Embrace the dance of meaningful corporate communication and watch your relationships thrive.

📈 Want your product/business featured in this newsletter?

For an extremely small fee, advertise to TechExec readers who are in positions of influence at Fortune 500 companies. Fill this form

🥰 Your feedback matters!

Thanks for reading! What did you think of today's newsletter? Reply to this email and let me know what you'd like to see more of.

If you ❤️ today’s edition, consider forwarding this to a friend or a family member.

Thanks for reading.

Until next time!