A 1-on-1 meeting is a private conversation between two individuals, typically a manager and an employee or a team leader and a team member. Unlike group meetings, 1-on-1 meetings are focused solely on the relationship between the two participants, allowing for deeper discussion, feedback, and alignment on goals and priorities.

How to prepare a meeting agenda for a 1-on-1 meeting

Effective preparation is key to maximizing the value of a 1-on-1 meeting. Before the meeting, both participants should reflect on their objectives and priorities and carefully craft a meeting agenda that sets the tone for discussing expectations, aligning on goals, reflecting on the past year, and planning for the future. 

This may involve reviewing previous meeting notes, setting agenda items, and gathering relevant information or updates. By coming prepared, participants can ensure that the conversation is focused and productive. A ready list of talking points can further facilitate a dialogue that promotes development, problem-solving, and mutual respect.

1-on-1 meeting format

While the format of 1-on-1 meetings may vary depending on organizational preferences and individual needs, they typically follow a structured agenda. Usual agenda items include updates on progress toward goals, discussions of challenges or roadblocks, feedback on performance, and opportunities for development or coaching. 

By following a consistent format, participants can ensure that meetings are efficient and effective. The first meeting is particularly crucial as it sets the foundation for these interactions, focusing on getting to know each other, understanding the new role, discussing career development, and establishing expectations for future meetings.

Purpose of 1-on-1 meetings

The primary purpose of 1-on-1 meetings is to build and maintain strong working relationships between managers and their direct reports. These meetings provide a dedicated time and space for managers to connect, collaborate, and align on objectives with their direct reports. 

By cultivating regular communication and feedback, 1-on-1 meetings support the growth and development of direct reports, enhance team cohesion, and drive organizational success.

Incorporating the Confluence 1-on-1 meeting template into your workflow streamlines your communication process and strengthens your team dynamics. Start using the template today to build better collaboration and drive success in your organization.