September 6, 2024
Read time: ~12 minutes
<aside> 📌 At Empower, we seek individuals who challenge personal assumptions, value ownership and trust, and strive for excellence to inspire and empower their team. If this article connected with you, join our team!
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<aside> 📎 A 1:1 is more than just a routine meeting—it’s your opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with your manager, drive your professional growth, and address key challenges. By preparing an agenda, maintaining a regular cadence, and focusing on deeper discussions beyond status updates, you can transform your 1:1s into a powerful tool for success. Remember, this is your time to align with your manager, seek feedback, and explore new opportunities. Take charge and make each 1:1 impactful!
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So, what exactly is a 1:1? You might assume the name "1:1" explains itself, but truly understanding its purpose can be the difference between being productive or missing opportunities. This article aims to help you make your 1:1s more effective, whether you’re new to the workforce and figuring out this recurring meeting that just popped up on your calendar, or you’re working with a new manager and want to revisit the basics.
At its core, a 1:1 is a meeting between a manager and their direct report. It’s a dedicated time for you to step away from your daily tasks and have an open, honest conversation with your manager.
One of the most important aspects of a 1:1 is that no one else is present. This creates an environment where trust can be built. Trust doesn't happen overnight, but by having regular 1:1s, you'll build that relationship with your manager.
Regular meetings provide you with valuable feedback about both your personal and professional growth.
No one is involved in every decision at a company, and at times it may be difficult to figure out how a specific decision relates to you or your work. In your 1:1, you can raise these concerns and gain a better understanding of how your work fits into the bigger picture.
Once trust is established, your 1:1 should become a safe space where you can discuss delicate issues.
Sometimes we have "lightbulb moments" while working on something and realize there’s an untapped opportunity to add value to the business. Your 1:1 is the perfect platform to discuss and get the wheels rolling on these ideas.
Because of the regular cadence of these meetings, you’ll receive prompt feedback and actionable items to move your career forward.
One of the most important reasons companies encourage 1:1s is to resolve issues before they become bigger problems. If something is bothering you, feel free to bring it up with your manager, so they can help you understand or resolve it.
1:1s are also an excellent opportunity to provide updates on any initiatives you're working on. It’s a dedicated space to share your progress, challenges, and successes in a more focused setting than larger team meetings. By regularly discussing your projects, you can ensure your manager is aligned with your direction and provide critical visibility into your contributions.