Leader Fables

34: The Art of the One-on-one

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Listen as Casey and Jacob explore why consistent one-on-ones are the highest-leverage activity for leaders, addressing the common dread around them and sharing strategies to transform them into relationship-building and coaching sessions.

Key Points Discussed:

  • The value of consistenat one-on-ones as a high-leverage leadership activity and why they should not be canceled or rescheduled.
  • The three core functions of one-on-ones: building relationships, providing coaching and feedback, and clearing the decks.
  • Strategies for agenda-setting, including having the direct report set the agenda first, using a three-question framework (“How are you?”, “How is the business?”, “How can I help?”), and feeding topics through shared channels or documents.
  • Techniques for structuring meetings: frequency (monthly to weekly), duration (avoid back-to-back or front-loading), and context (changing location, shared meals or coffee, disabling distractions).
  • Coaching tips: letting the direct report speak most of the time (aim for 70/30 listening to talking ratio), using individual development plans, and exploring collaborative book readings.

    • Actionable Takeaways:

    • Schedule recurring one-on-ones at least monthly, aim for weekly when possible, and avoid rescheduling.
    • Create a shared agenda space (Slack channel or document) for continuous topic capture.
    • Use a clear agenda framework: direct report first, fallback prompts from the manager.
    • Reserve the last minutes for administrative updates and handle most updates asynchronously.
    • Enter each session distraction-free: enable Do Not Disturb and choose a setting that fosters open conversation.

      • Ready to elevate your leadership? Commit to consistent, purposeful one-on-ones and start building stronger, more engaged teams.

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      Leader FablesBy Fables LLC