Meaningful 1:1s became the backbone of employee experience and growth. Most people-first companies incorporate manager-employee 1:1s from day one to make sure every team member has dedicated time for reflection, goal-setting, and feedback. Having a regular discussion with a manager gives employees the opportunity to build a trusted relationship, and make sure they are working toward their goals. It's one of the best ways to give your employees a voice and space for feedback as well. Here's how to start 1:1s in your company.
Setup
Roles
Define who will be a part of the 1:1 process to create the best employee experience:
- People Ops Manager
- Manager
- Employee
Before launching 1:1 program
People Ops Manager tasks
- Define the frequency and goal of your company 1:1s
- Collaborate with managers to generate buy-in on their responsibility and process
- Create question templates for managers
Checklist
First 1:1 with new hire
Manager tasks
- Set the expectation and explain 1:1s process
- Share 1:1 questions in advance
- Create a safe space and build trust by opening up to an honest conversation, actively listening, not jumping to conclusions, and asking follow-up questions to understand employee's point of view
- Try one of our recommended questions:
- What is your preferred method of communication?
- How often would you like to check in together?
- How do you prefer to get recognition – publicly or privately?
- What motivates you the most?
- What kind of projects are you most excited to work on?
- What do you like to do outside of work?
- How can I help? What are some questions you’d like to ask me?
Regular 1:1s
Manager tasks
- Set a recurring schedule with calendar invites
- Share 1:1 questions at least a week in advance
- Take some time to review last 1:1 notes and get in the right mindset
- Write notes and mark things to discuss next time
- Send a follow-up right after with:
- Key takeaways, feedback thing to keep in mind
- Action steps for you and employee
- Things to discuss on your next 1:1
- Repeat
People Ops Manager tasks
- Collect 1:1 feedback from managers and employees (we recommend a quarterly cadence)
What's next
