1:1 Meeting Playbook

Purpose: To run high-impact 1:1s that create alignment, unblock work, and accelerate personal growth — without turning into status meetings.

🧠 Why This Matters

Great 1:1s aren’t about micromanaging. They’re about surfacing insights, supporting progress, and coaching your team toward better performance. This framework balances tactical execution with personal connection and coaching.

Use this weekly or bi-weekly with every direct report.

✅ Step-by-Step 1:1 Flow

1. ✍️ Pre-Meeting Prep (each person fills out before the meeting)

For the Manager

Bring 1–2 pieces of positive and/or constructive feedback
Prepare a brief update on past commitments
Be ready to share context on any relevant business updates or decisions

For the Direct Report

Share 1–2 recent wins (personal or work-related)
Prepare a status update on key commitments
List any current blockers, questions, or topics for discussion

2. 💬 Connection Check-In

Use these prompts to start the conversation:

How are you feeling this week?
How’s life outside of work?
Any stressors or personal struggles we should talk through?

3. 🎯 Weekly Goals

Review and align on top priorities for the week.
This helps ensure focus and keeps the team from drifting.

4. 🧹 Commitments & Roadblocks

Use this table to review what’s been promised, what’s stuck, and what needs attention.

Topic/Context	Added By	Priority	Commitments	Status/Notes
		☐ Low ☐ Medium ☐ High
		☐ Low ☐ Medium ☐ High
		☐ Low ☐ Medium ☐ High

5. 🚗 Parking Lot

Capture anything that isn’t urgent, needs more context, or requires external input.

“Let’s park this for now and revisit next week or when X is ready.”

6. 🗣️ Feedback & Coaching

Space for developmental feedback or skill-building conversations.

What’s one shift that would make their work more impactful or efficient?

📋 Blank 1:1 Meeting Worksheet

Here’s a ready-to-use version for each weekly 1:1:

✅ Pre-Meeting

Manager Prep

Positive Feedback:
Constructive Feedback:
Update on past commitments:
Topics to cover:

Direct Report Prep

Recent wins:
Update on commitments:
Topics or blockers:

💬 Connect – How are you feeling?

How are you doing this week?
Anything outside of work affecting your focus?
Any struggles or challenges we should talk about?

🎯 Goals – Priorities This Week

🔍 Align – Review Commitments & Clear Roadblocks

Topic/Context	Added By	Priority	Commitments	Status/Notes
		☐ Low ☐ Medium ☐ High
		☐ Low ☐ Medium ☐ High
		☐ Low ☐ Medium ☐ High