Career Chemistry: Manager 1on1s Spark Success

This article focuses on how 1on1s with team leads and managers are keys to unlocking alignment, clarity, and growth.

1-on-1 meetings are the secret ingredient in creating career chemistry—they’re a powerful way to spark relationships, share ideas, and ignite professional growth. However, their success hinges on how you approach them. When connecting with your manager, having a focused strategy transforms these conversations into career-defining moments.

This article dives into how to make the most of your 1-on-1s with team leads and managers. By preparing with purpose, sharing insights, and clarifying goals, you can turn these meetings into a platform for collaboration and long-term success. These conversations are your chance to align priorities, gain valuable feedback, and explore opportunities for career advancement.

Purpose

?? Gain clarity on expectations and goals.

?? Receive feedback to support your development.

?? Discuss career growth and development opportunities.

Strategies

?? Prepare in Advance

Coming to your 1-on-1 with an agenda demonstrates respect for your manager’s time and a proactive attitude. Ensure your agenda includes:

Examples of Discussion Points:

• Updates: Share progress on key projects or tasks. “The [project/task] is on track, and we’re seeing [specific progress]. Here’s what I’m planning for the next steps—does that align with your expectations?”
• Challenges: Discuss any roadblocks you’re encountering. “I’ve encountered [specific issue] with [task/project]. I’d appreciate your input on how to address it.”
• Questions: Ask for clarity on priorities or timelines. “Could we revisit the timeline for [initiative]? I want to ensure I’m prioritizing effectively.”

Having a structured agenda keeps the conversation focused and ensures important topics are addressed.

?? Share Wins

Highlighting your accomplishments reinforces your contributions to the team’s success. Share measurable results or feedback you’ve received.

Examples:

• “Since implementing [process change], we’ve seen a [specific result], such as reduced turnaround time or increased efficiency.”
• “On [project], I identified [opportunity] that helped us save [X resources/time]. I’d love your input on how we can scale this impact.”
• “I received positive feedback from [stakeholder/client] regarding [specific effort].”

Sharing wins not only informs your manager of your value but also sets a positive tone for the meeting.

?? Proactively Seek Feedback

Constructive feedback is essential for growth and improvement. Asking for feedback shows that you’re invested in your development. Proactively seeking feedback demonstrates humility and a willingness to grow.

Examples of Questions:

• “What do you think went well with my approach on [project]? Are there areas where I could improve?”
• “Is there anything I could be doing differently to better support the team’s objectives?”
• “Are there skills or habits you think I should develop to prepare for [specific goal]?”

?? Discuss Development

Use your 1-on-1 to explore career development opportunities and gain insight into your manager’s perspective on your growth. Focusing on growth signals your commitment to contributing at a higher level within the organization.

Examples:

• “I’d love to hear your thoughts on how I can grow into [specific role or responsibility]. Are there projects or tasks I should focus on to develop those skills?”
• “Are there any upcoming opportunities where I can take on more leadership or responsibility?”
• “What professional development resources would you recommend to help me improve in [specific area]?”

?? Clarify Priorities

Ensure you’re aligned with your manager on what’s most important, and adjust your focus as needed. Clarifying priorities ensures you’re working on what matters most and meeting expectations effectively.

Examples:

• “Given the team’s current priorities, is there anything I should shift my focus to?”
• “What are the key outcomes you’d like me to achieve in the next [timeframe]?”
• “Are there tasks or projects you’d like me to deprioritize to make room for [specific initiative]?”

?? Follow Up with Gratitude and Clarity

After your 1-on-1, follow up with an email or Slack message to summarize the key takeaways and express gratitude for their time and guidance. This follow-up reinforces accountability and ensures alignment.

Examples:

• “Thank you for your time today. I appreciate your feedback on [specific topic] and will implement [specific action] moving forward. Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like me to prioritize.”
• “Thanks for meeting with me. I’ve summarized our key takeaways: [bullet points]. Let me know if I missed anything!”

??Pro Tip

Keep a Running List. Consider maintaining a shared document or personal list of discussion points for your 1-on-1s or leverage your company's platforms like Slack or Culture Amp. This helps you stay organized and ensures nothing important is overlooked.

Final Thoughts

1-on-1s with your manager are more than just check-ins—they’re an opportunity to align on priorities, gain valuable feedback, and discuss your career growth. By preparing in advance, sharing wins, seeking feedback, clarifying priorities, and following up with gratitude, you can make these meetings a cornerstone of your professional success.

Dee xo