Here’s an inside look at two fictional managers, both at the same company.

Michael was preparing for his 1:1 with Jenna. He usually spent an hour or two reviewing her work, their past conversations, and how he could help her grow in her position. Michael would usually have a list of 2-3 positive things to say, a few questions to ask, and specific coaching he wanted to offer Jenna.

Jenna was sitting in her cubicle, reviewing her notes, ready for her next 1:1 with her boss, Michael. Jenna generally loved these meetings; not only did Michael praise her, but he also coached her without being a considering prick like her last boss, Jim. Jenna always spent time preparing for their meetings because she felt like Michael actually listened to her. And the more she prepped, the better the conversations became and the happier she was in her role.

Jenna walked into Michael’s office ready for their 1:1, cheerful as always, and said, “Good Morning!”

Michael responded with a smile and said, “Hey Jenna, how’s the dog doing? Surgery went well?”

Now let’s take a look at Jenna’s former boss, Jim, working in a different department.

Jim was grabbing a cup of coffee, chatting with Kevin about the game last night. He couldn’t believe the Cowboys beat his beloved Raiders by 17 points. What a terrible way to start my morning, he thought. Keven said, “Well, how’s the day look? Is it going to get any better?”

“Not a chance”

“Why’s that?”

“I have my 1:1 with Cathy today.”

“Yikes, have fun.”

In a cubicle nearby, Cathy was preparing for her 1:1 with her boss, Jim. She had stopped spending hours on them and was down to about 30 minutes. She knew these meetings could be helpful, at least with her last manager, Michael, they always had been. But now, with Jim, Cathy felt like a nuisance. She would prepare and deliver her message with confidence, but Jim would barely look up from his computer, never ask questions, and avoid any sort of personal conversation.

Cathy walked into Jim’s office and said, “Good morning.”

Jim replied, “Oh, it’s 10 am already, great, let’s get started.”

Great leaders prepare when it matters most, especially in employee 1:1s. They don’t try to wing it with their employees. Instead, they spend time getting to know their people, understanding their goals, and genuinely helping them grow and develop. Signing up for leadership is a commitment and responsibility to put in the effort to take care of your people. Taking time to prepare shows your employees you care.

Until next time,

Rick