1:1 Framework

Principles

You are more than the square video box on my screen.

While we’re connecting over video, you are a whole human being with a depth of experience. I want to know about what you’re struggling with at work and outside of work—our lives affect how we show up at work.

This time is your time, and we can use it how you want.

I talk further about how we’ll structure these meetings, but this is time for you to discuss what you want. I’ll ask questions, but I really want to listen and learn.

Our focus is on how I can help you.

I’m here to help you. I’ll provide advice, feedback, recommendations, and help equip you with the agency to tackle challenges independently.

Philosophy

Empowerment & Ownership

The goal is to empower you to take full ownership of your development, challenges, and personal and career growth. By guiding these meetings, you will have the autonomy to drive the conversation towards what matters most to you, ensuring that each session is valuable and tailored to your needs.

Leadership at All Levels

Leadership is not confined to titles; it’s a mindset. By leading our 1:1s, you will cultivate skills to lead at all levels, fostering a sense of responsibility, initiative, and proactivity.

High Agency Problem Solving

Developing high agency means having the confidence and capability to tackle problems independently. This framework is designed to equip you with the tools and mindset needed to navigate and resolve challenges effectively.

Framework

1. Preparation

• Monthly Reflection: Spend time reflecting on the past month. Consider what went well, what challenges you faced, and any learnings or insights.
• Agenda Setting: Draft a simple agenda outlining the key topics you want to discuss. This could include achievements, challenges, feedback, career growth, and any specific support you need (particularly things I can help with).
• Questions & Topics: Think about questions or topics you want to explore, whether they are related to current projects, personal development, or broader career growth.

2. Meeting Structure

• Intro (10m): Briefly review the previous month’s follow-ups and catch up.
• Discussion (40m): Dive into the agenda topics. This is your time to highlight achievements, discuss challenges, seek feedback, and explore new ideas. You will guide the discussion, but I will still bring questions and ask any that come up.
• Outro (10m): Summarize key takeaways, set action items, and plan follow-ups. This ensures accountability and continuity between meetings.

3. Guiding Questions

To help frame thoughts and guide the discussion, consider the following questions:

Achievements

• What accomplishments are you proud of this month?
• How did you achieve them?
• What did you enjoy most?

Challenges

• What obstacles did you encounter?
• How did you handle them?
• What support do you need?

Feedback

• What feedback do you have on recent tasks or projects?
• Do you have feedback on any recent company changes?
• How can I support your growth?

Career Growth

• What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
• What steps are you taking towards them?
• Are there opportunities you’re interested in?

Learning

• What new skills or knowledge have you acquired?
• What skill or knowledge gaps do you have?
• What do you want to learn next?

Process

Before our 1:1 each month:

• Open the 1:1 Meeting Doc. It will be bookmarked in our Slack DM.
• Copy the meeting block and paste the latest on top. Update the date.
• Add any relevant information to the relevant sections.

Making Changes

It’s up to you if you want to:

• Do a walking 1:1 over the phone instead of on video.
• Reschedule the meeting to another day and time.
• Cancel the next meeting (skip one).