Mentoring Moment: First 1:1 Meeting of the Year

The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect, reset, and reimagine possibilities. Whether you're a manager guiding individual growth or a teammate seeking direction and support, the first 1:1 meeting of the year is a golden opportunity to establish clarity, build connection, and set the tone for a successful year.

Here’s how to make that conversation impactful, with examples tailored for both managers and teammates:

1. Begin with Gratitude

Start by acknowledging accomplishments and challenges from the past year. Gratitude fosters positivity and builds trust.

Manager Example: "Before we dive into this year, I want to highlight how much your contributions to [specific project] meant. Your ability to [specific strength] really helped us achieve [specific outcome], and I’m grateful for your hard work."

Teammate Example: "I want to thank you for your guidance last year. Your support during [specific challenge] really helped me navigate [specific outcome], and I’ve grown because of it."

2. Align on Purpose

Clarify the goals and purpose of your 1:1s to ensure they remain valuable throughout the year.

Questions to Explore:

• “What do you hope to achieve from our meetings in the next six months?”
• “Are there any areas where you’d like more guidance or feedback?”

Manager Example: "My goal for our 1:1s this year is to ensure you feel supported in achieving your goals and have opportunities for growth. What would you like to prioritize in our time together?"

Teammate Example: "I’d like to use our 1:1s this year to focus on feedback and guidance for [specific skill/project]. I’m also eager to identify areas where I can contribute more."

3. Set Intentions and Expectations

Use this opportunity to establish how you’ll work together, covering communication preferences, feedback styles, and support needs.

Discussion Points:

• “How do you prefer to receive feedback—immediately or during scheduled check-ins?”
• “What’s the best way for me to support you in achieving your goals?”

Manager Example: "I’d like us to meet biweekly and keep our conversations focused on progress, challenges, and opportunities. Let me know if there’s anything I should adjust to make these meetings more helpful for you."

Teammate Example: "I appreciate direct feedback during our meetings, and I’d also like to check in on longer-term development goals every quarter. Does that sound reasonable?"

4. Explore Growth Opportunities

Discuss areas for skill development, new challenges, or stretch assignments. A focus on growth builds motivation and momentum.

Prompts to Explore Together:

• “What skills or experiences are you excited to develop this year?”
• “Are there any stretch opportunities or projects you’d like to explore?”

Manager Example: "I see a lot of potential for you in [specific skill/area]. Would you be interested in exploring a stretch project related to [specific opportunity]?"

Teammate Example: "I’m really interested in building expertise in [specific skill]. Are there any upcoming opportunities where I can contribute and learn in this area?"

5. Close with Inspiration

End on an uplifting note to build excitement for the year ahead. Share an encouraging message or reflect on what’s possible.

Manager Example: "I’m excited about the potential for growth and collaboration this year. Let’s focus on making meaningful progress and celebrating your achievements along the way."

Teammate Example: "I’m looking forward to growing and contributing more this year. Thank you for your support, and I’m excited to see what we can achieve together."

Final Thought

The first 1:1 conversation of the year is not just a meeting—it’s a powerful opportunity to set the tone for shared growth, connection, and success. By starting with gratitude, aligning on purpose, and setting clear intentions, you lay the foundation for a year where every interaction becomes a mentoring moment that drives progress.

What approaches have helped you make your first mentoring conversations impactful? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s inspire each other to make 2025: The Year of the Mentor!