Thread by @ramannoodlez

Here’s the problem with 1:1s as an engineering manager:

Most engineers don’t come to 1:1s with set agendas, so it turns into you talking for >30% of the time.

🤔 As an EM, how do you make the most of 1:1 time for your direct report?

1:1s are the time for you and your DR to connect. Most managers use this time to ask about ongoing project status.

Or even worse, you may find yourself talking most of the time!

Leave project updates to stand-ups.

Create a 1:1 structure that lets DRs take the lead.

First, creating a running agenda doc shared between the two of you and write down EVERYTHING.

Encourage them to add to it before your 1:1.

After some time you’ll have historical context that will help with promos + if they change managers.

Discuss major company / team updates

Someone just left the team? Company priorities shifted? Ask them how they feel about it. What are their concerns?

Then, calm their fears as best you can + figure out w leads how to address the rest.

IMPORTANT: Follow up at your next 1:1

Ask about their life

Most managers don’t take the time to get to know their DRs. Are they getting married soon? Moving? Their fav show is returning?

Ask questions about their life. Build trust + compassion for them as a whole person, not just their work self.

Set career goals

If they know what role they want next, go over the career ladder + start creating a promo doc w examples. Set goals for the areas of opportunity.

If they don’t, help them identify their strengths + interests and find a mentor.

Run a retro

Ask what “went well” and “to improve” about the last week. Put everything on the table - their work, team dynamics, sprint processes.

Create actionable next steps together so they learn how to actively problem solve beyond code.

Engage them in your work

Let them know what’s going on! Share updates from your manager, new project ideas, etc + be transparent w how you’re thinking about things.

Ask them their opinion on problems you’re working on. Let’s them see what you do + builds collaboration.

And lastly, try not to cancel your 1:1s!

If the agenda is empty, remind them to add to it. Otherwise, still show up.

There’s always something to talk about that will help them grow!

DRs should feel comfortable + look forward to 1:1s — that’s your goal.

Thank you to the many amazing EMs I contacted for their suggestions on how to run affective 1:1s!

If you found this helpful, please consider retweeting the first tweet 🙏🏽

(and maybe send it to your manager 👀)

Should've learned this the first time 😅 Grab the 1:1 Agenda Template including ideas for what to discuss + tips to good 1:1s here (again, FREE!):

mitraraman.gumroad.com/l/11agenda

Excited to see your 1:1s improve!