Mastering 1:1 Meetings: 6 Tips to Elevate Your Leadership and Team Connection

Are you a leader who has noticed team members trying to avoid their 1:1's? Do you sometimes find it difficult to lead these meetings with intentionality? You are not alone. I get you.

However, when I changed my approach and became more intentional in leading 1:1s, I became a better leader, and my team members became more engaged. The good news is that you can make these meetings just as impactful for you and your team.

In one of my recent posts, I talked about leveraging systems to meet your team where they are. Today, let's dive deeper into a few practical strategies to engage your team during those 1:1's.

Here are a few tips for leading impactful 1:1's: 

👂 Listen More, Talk Less:
   - Actively listen to your team's roadblocks, concerns, goals, and wins.
   - Remove distractions, stay focused, and avoid disruptions.
   - Keep eye contact and take notes.

🚫 Distraction-Free Zone:
    - Don't let others cut your time short. Stay focused on your team.
    - Make adjustments – change your location, meet in a neutral space, or take a walk together.

📋 Have a Plan:
     -Come prepared with an agenda: provide feedback, celebrate milestones, discuss personal                  updates, and identify areas for development. 
     - Follow up on action items promptly.

🔄 Create Systems for Success:
     - If needed, establish systems to meet your team where they are.
     - Flexibility is key – adapt your meetings to bring the most value.

🔄 Be Consistent:
     - Regularly schedule and honor your 1:1 meetings.
     - Consistency builds trust and reinforces the importance you place on your team's success.

✨ Value and Care:
    -Implementing these strategies will make your team members feel valued and cared for.
    -Show them that their success matters to you.