If you lead a team, I’ve got news for you:
Every move you make is shaping how they see you.
How you handle 1:1 meetings?
That’s a bigger signal of your leadership style than any grand strategy, company-wide email, or motivational speech.
And if you’re treating those meetings as nothing more than status updates, you’re sending the wrong message—whether you realize it or not.
The Leadership Mistake You’re Probably Making
Let’s be honest: Most leaders wing their 1:1s.
They show up distracted, unprepared, or worse—they cancel them altogether.
What does that tell your team?
👉 You’re not a priority.
👉 Your work isn’t important.
👉 This company doesn’t really care about you.
Now, here’s the kicker—leaders don’t say these things out loud, but their actions scream them.
And trust me, your team notices.
How to Flip the Script on 1:1s
What if I told you that a great 1:1 is the single most powerful leadership tool you have?
Instead of running a glorified to-do list review, here’s the 3-part framework I break down in my latest video:
1️⃣ Check-in: Stop with the “How’s it going?” Instead, ask: What’s one thing that’s been on your mind lately?
2️⃣ Alignment: What do you need from me? (And if they say “Nothing,” dig deeper.)
3️⃣ Growth: What’s one skill you want to develop this year?
It sounds simple, but when done right, it builds trust, boosts engagement, and retains top talent.
And here’s the kicker—you can use this same approach to ace your 1:1s with your boss and position yourself for a faster promotion. I cover that too in the video.
👉 Watch the full breakdown here:
Now, Your Turn
What’s one question you’ve asked in a 1:1 meeting that sparked a great conversation?
And if you want more high-impact leadership insights, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel—I try to drop new videos every week.
Your team is watching. So lead wisely.
Best regards,
Roger