The power of 1-on-1 meetings: building trust and connection.

As a leader of an IT company with a team in Ukraine, now living and working in the U.S., I’ve realized that 1-on-1 meetings are a true game changer. After moving here, I quickly saw how important these meetings are to keep the team aligned, motivated, and in sync—especially when we’re across different continents.

Why 1-on-1s matter1-on-1 meetings are not just another calendar item; it's a great opportunity to build a connection with your team. I remember when I first started these meetings with my developers in Ukraine after moving to the U.S. Due to the time zone differences, as well as the distance of thousands of kilometers, it's easy to lose track of what’s going on with each team member. Plus, because of those time zones, I’m often the one initiating the calls. But dedicating time for regular 1-on-1s has helped us close that gap.

Building trust through conversationsOne of the greatest benefits of 1-on-1s is building trust. When you take the time to really listen—truly listen—you show your team members that you care about them not just as workers but as individuals. For example, during one sync, I noticed one of my colleagues wasn’t as upbeat or engaged as usual. During our 1-on-1, he shared that he was feeling overwhelmed by work and personal issues related to the loss of family members. Because we had this personal conversation, we were able to come up with a plan that supported him both professionally and personally.

Tailored approachEach 1-1 is unique, and that’s the beauty of it. Some team members need more guidance and structure, while others might just need space to brainstorm or talk things through. For candidates, these meetings are a great way to understand their goals better and see if they align with the company’s vision. Often, these conversations reveal much more about someone’s potential than a standard interview ever could.

Getting the pulse of your teamThese meetings are also a great way to keep your finger on the pulse of team morale and dynamics. After moving to the U.S., I noticed some cultural differences affecting how my team interacted with me and with each other. Regular 1-on-1s helped me adapt my leadership style to better meet their needs, making our collaboration smoother and more effective. Plus, regular calls helped me stay updated on the challenges caused by power outages and missile strikes in Ukraine.

Practical Tips:

1. Consistency is key: Set up a regular schedule for 1-on-1s and stick to it. This shows these meetings are a priority, not just an afterthought.

2. Be present: Focus entirely on the person you’re talking to. It’s tempting to multitask, but this is your time to fully engage with your team member.

3. Ask open-ended questions: Encourage your team members to share more by asking things like, “What’s been on your mind lately?” or “How can I better support you?”

4. Follow up: If you discuss action items or personal concerns, make sure to revisit them in the next meeting. This shows that you’re truly invested in their growth and well-being.

In the end, 1-on-1 meetings aren’t just about checking progress; they’re an investment in your team’s success and happiness. Whether you’re in the same office or thousands of miles apart, these meetings are your chance to connect, support, and inspire your team to reach new heights.