Today’s workplace dynamic calls for more individualized and meaningful connections between managers and employees. The traditional culture where the leadership team stays distant is over now that more employees are quiet-quitting because of their managers.
According to a study by Officevibe, 96% of employees prefer getting regular feedback from their managers. The problem is, 32% of employees experience delays in the feedback they expect.
This problem can be solved by one-on-one check-ins.
One-on-one check-ins allow managers to connect with team members and build stronger and more trusting relationships. They allow employees to feel seen, heard, and valued—not just as part of a team but as individuals with unique strengths and aspirations.
In this article, we'll explore why these brief but powerful conversations have become a game-changer in modern workplaces.
What are One-on-One Check-Ins?
One-on-one check-ins are personalized, individual meetings between a manager and an employee within a professional setting. Unlike traditional performance reviews, which are often conducted annually or semi-annually, these check-ins occur more frequently, providing a regular opportunity for open communication and discussion.
During one-on-one check-ins, managers and employees engage in conversations beyond the scope of day-to-day tasks. These meetings address various aspects of the employee's experience, such as work progress, challenges, goals, and personal development.
Why are One-on-One Check-Ins Important?
One-on-one check-ins contribute to the overall success and well-being of both employees and organizations. Here are some key reasons why these personalized meetings hold significant importance:
1. Improved communication
One-on-one check-ins provide a dedicated space for open and transparent communication between managers and employees. This facilitates the exchange of ideas, concerns, and feedback in a more personal and supportive environment than formal meetings or group settings.
2. Increased employee engagement
Regular one-on-one interactions make employees feel valued and recognized. These check-ins show that their opinions matter, fostering a sense of belonging and engagement. This personalized attention can boost morale and motivation, increasing job satisfaction.
3. Building trust and relationships
One-on-one check-ins contribute to the development of strong, trusting relationships between managers and their team members. This trust is essential for effective collaboration, problem-solving, and navigating challenges within the workplace.
4. Recognition and feedback
Employees crave recognition for their efforts and achievements. One-on-one check-ins offer a platform for managers to provide constructive feedback, acknowledge accomplishments, and address areas for improvement, creating a positive and motivating work environment.
5. Individualized attention
Each employee has unique strengths, challenges, and career goals. One-on-one check-ins allow managers to understand and address these individual characteristics, fostering a more personalized and tailored approach to leadership.
Tips for Successful One-on-One Check-Ins
For one-on-one check-ins to be successful, there must be two-way communication and collaboration, where managers and employees actively contribute to a constructive and open dialogue.
Here are some tips that could make one-on-one check-ins more productive for both managers and employees.
Tips for Managers
- Be prepared: Review the employee's recent work, achievements, and challenges before the meeting. Come with an agenda but also allow flexibility for the employee to share their concerns or ideas.
- Listen actively: Practice active listening to understand the employee's perspective fully. Avoid interrupting and allow space for the employee to express their thoughts and feelings.
- Provide constructive feedback: Offer specific and actionable feedback, focusing on strengths and areas for improvement. Positively frame your feedback, emphasizing growth and development.
- Ask open-ended questions: Encourage meaningful discussions by asking open-ended questions. Use questions that delve into the employee's goals, challenges, and career aspirations.
- Be flexible and adaptive. Be open to adjusting the format or frequency of check-ins based on the employees' needs. Adapt your communication style to suit each employee's preferences.
Tips for Employees
- Prepare for the meeting: Reflect on your recent work, achievements, and challenges, and use these as a basis for questions or topics you'd like to discuss with your manager.
- Express your needs: Communicate your career goals and development needs to your manager. Share any challenges or obstacles you're facing in your role.
- Show initiative: Demonstrate your commitment to professional development. Propose ideas for skill-building opportunities or training programs.
- Provide updates on progress: Share updates on any action items or goals discussed in previous check-ins. Communicate any challenges you've faced and seek guidance if needed.
- Be open to feedback: Embrace feedback as a tool for improvement. Act on constructive suggestions to enhance your performance and skills.
Traditionally, formal meetings are seen as more productive. But a team's true strength lies in the genuine connections fostered during one-on-one check-ins. Remember, it's not just a manager providing guidance; it's a collaborative effort where employees actively contribute to the conversation, creating a more dynamic and responsive work environment.
This is why creating a more relaxed and communicative atmosphere could also be effective for some one-on-one check-ins. These laid-back interactions can play a pivotal role in breaking down barriers and nurturing authentic connections between managers and employees.
Virtual coffee chat platforms like CoffeePals can create a safe space for managers and employees to build stronger relationships. Add CoffeePals to Microsoft Teams now and start having meaningful conversations with your team.
