What are 1:1 meetings?
If you’re part of a team, you should have recurring 1:1 meetings with your manager. But these aren’t just casual check-ins or status updates. They’re a powerful tool when used well.
A 1:1 meeting is your dedicated time to:
- Remove blockers and get clarity
- Share updates and get feedback
- Align on priorities and next steps
- Highlight wins and lessons learned
- Talk through challenges or opportunities
- Get support to stay focused and make progress
When you take ownership of the process, 1:1s can become one of the most valuable parts of your week. Here’s how to run them well.
Who runs the 1:1?
You do. This is your time, which means you’re responsible for:
- Preparing and sharing the agenda
- Leading the conversation
- Capturing and following up on action items
This meeting is a tool to help you succeed. Don’t wait for your manager to drive it.
How to prepare
Use a shared Google Doc to track your 1:1s over time. One doc, one place, with a running list of agendas and notes.
You can grab this free 1:1 agenda template to get started.
Here’s how to make it effective:
- Copy the templated section
- Update the heading with the meeting date before each meeting
- Add discussion items in the appropriate sections, linking to relevant information where appropriate. Group your talking points by theme or priority.
- Share the updated agenda at least 24 hours in advance
- With any challenges you’re experiencing, include potential solutions. Don’t come to your manager with only problems, take ownership and offer solutions.
- Clearly note any decisions or follow-ups
What to bring
Bring what’s top of mind and what will help you keep momentum. That might include:
- Updates on what’s going well and lessons learned
- Roadblocks (with suggested solutions)
- Questions, decisions, or areas where you need support
- Feedback you’re seeking or clarification you need
Don’t show up just to report, show up ready to engage.
End with clear next steps
A good 1:1 doesn’t just surface ideas or problems, it moves things forward. Before you wrap up the meeting, take a moment to confirm:
- What decisions were made
- What actions need to happen (and who owns them)
- When those actions are due
Then, document those next steps in your agenda doc so nothing gets lost. Review them at the start of your next 1:1 to stay on track and keep momentum going.
When you take the lead on your 1:1s, you get more out of them: more clarity, more support, and more momentum. Use this structure to turn a recurring meeting into a powerful habit that drives your work forward.
