For Productive 1:1 Meetings, Use This Agenda Template

A colleague recently requested help to improve her meetings with direct reports. She asked:

As I develop a cadence for 1:1 meetings, what items should be on our agenda to have meaningful discussion? 

Excellent question. An effective standing agenda furthers connection and encourages mutual growth.  The outcomes of the standing agenda should:

• lend naturally to energizing conversation

• empower direct reports to share feedback openly

• provide opportunities for both leader and employee to learn

• drive creativity in problem solving

• result in new ideas or better ways of doing things

• reinforce trust

Below is a 1:1 meeting agenda I recommend.  The question-asking format allows both leader and employee to give and receive feedback conversationally.  It creates an atmosphere where curiosity is welcomed and can be used in person or virtually.  You'll learn about current employee challenges, preferences, and work style by asking these questions regularly. 

1:1 Meeting Agenda Template

• What fun, interesting, or challenging things are going on in your world?

• How can I provide support with the work you are doing right now?

• Are there job concerns or challenges we need to address today?  -or- What are the things at work keeping you up at night?

• What work projects need more clarity?

• What key deliverables exist between now and our next 1:1 meeting?  Who owns them?  Are the deadlines realistic?

• What else do we need to cover today?

I encourage you to use this template as a starting point and make it your own.  Regular 1:1 meetings with an agenda like this lead to stronger trust, greater clarity, and deeper relationships with each direct report. 

Katie Stone is the founder of Together Evolving.  Email Katie at katie.stone@togetherevolving.com to learn more about the transformational impact coaching can have on you and your leadership.