How do you feel when you hold one on one “chats” with your direct reports? We’re not talking about formal feedback sessions or performance evaluations, but rather monthly sessions to keep in touch and build relationships.
We’ve known leaders in the past that kicked off each session simply asking if there was anything the person wanted to talk about, if the person didn’t provide a topic, the session ended. That’s not what we have in mind.
These informal one-on-one sessions are a great way to learn more about each person and continually build your relationship with them. Here are some ideas to learn more:
- What are their likes? Dislikes?
- What do they do when not at work?
- Do they have a family? Pets? Hobbies?
- What are their career aspirations?
- What skillset would they like to develop?
- What’s their ideal job?
- Where do they see themselves in 2 years? 5 years? 10 years?
- What do they view as their “magic dust”? (their strengths and what they enjoy doing)
- Ask in general how they are doing.
- If you’ve both taken personality assessments (ex. MBTI, DiSC, EQ, Working Genius, etc), share your findings, and also discuss which assessment you enjoyed or learned the most from.
This does not mean to exclude discussions about work.
- Have they experienced any challenges or roadblocks?
- Are there any barriers you could help eliminate?
- Align on priorities and desired outcomes, with associated timelines.
- Share any feedback you’ve received about them or your team.
- Ask if they have concerns about having sufficient resources to obtain objectives or goals.
Take advantage of this type of informal session; it not only helps you learn more about the person both personally and professionally, it will create a stronger relationship and build trust.
Sincerely,
Mike and Jan