I have been trying to make more out of my weekly one on ones with my direct reports. I stumbled on this article in Forbes by Kristi Hedges that laid out a good rule of thumb agenda for a 45 minute one-on-one meeting:
15 Minutes: What your direct report needs to raise with you, get approved, etc.
15 Minutes: What you need to raise with your direct, delegate, provide feedback on, etc.
10 Minutes: Free time to air any long-term concerns, progress toward development goals, etc.
5 Minutes: State accountabilities and make a plan for follow up
This simple formula will ensure that both parties get to said what needs saying. The report is in the driver’s seat for the beginning of the meeting, meaning if they have something to get off their chest they are able to do so and move on to other topics that you might need to address.
Naturally having the Who-Talks.com app clocking how much time each person speaks will enable you as the manager and your report to understand how long each of you is actually speaking and ensure a fair talking to listening ratio.
WhoTalks.app 