So, you just became a manager—congrats! Now what? If you’re like most new managers, your first 1-on-1 meeting with a direct report might feel… awkward. But it doesn’t have to be.
This quick guide will help you walk into that meeting with confidence and come out looking like a pro.
✅ Why 1-on-1s Matter
1-on-1s are your best tool for building trust, understanding your team, and solving problems before they blow up. Done well, they’re not status updates—they’re relationship builders.
🧩 Before the Meeting
Set the tone:
- Send a quick note ahead of time letting them know this is a casual, get-to-know-you conversation.
- Example: “Hey! Excited to catch up in our first 1-on-1. Totally casual—just want to hear how things are going from your perspective.”
Pick the right environment:
- If in person: grab coffee or go for a short walk.
- If remote: make sure your camera is on, and the vibe is friendly.
🗒 What to Talk About
Here’s a simple structure:
- Start with them
- “How’s everything going for you lately?”
- “What’s something you enjoy working on here?”
- Ask about blockers
- “What’s getting in the way of your success?”
- “Anything I can do to make your job easier?”
- Set mutual expectations
- Share your working style, preferences, and what they can expect from you.
- Ask about theirs too.
- Check in on goals
- “Where do you want to grow or develop this year?”
- “How can I support you in that?”
🧠 Pro Tips
- Take light notes, but focus more on listening.
- Be consistent—make 1-on-1s a recurring habit, not a one-time event.
- Follow up—even small wins or updates on what they shared go a long way.
💬 Simple Script Starters
- “I want these meetings to be helpful for you—not just about work tasks. What would make these valuable?”
- “I’m here to help you succeed. If something’s off, I want to hear about it early.”
🎯 Bottom Line
Your first 1-on-1 isn’t about proving anything—it’s about listening, connecting, and setting the foundation for a strong working relationship.
Keep it real. Keep it human. You’ve got this!
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