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# 🫱🏼‍🫲🏾 Maximizing 1:1 Meetings with Your Manager
- URL: https://www.mattrutherford.co.uk/1to1meetingswithyourmanager/
- Published: 2023-09-03T10:17:47.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-13T09:50:12.000Z
- Description: Your 1:1 meeting with your manager is an invaluable opportunity to foster open communication, gain clarity on your role, and align on expectations.
- Author: Matt
- Tags: Career, Feedback

Your 1:1 meeting with your manager is an invaluable opportunity to foster open communication, gain clarity on your role, and align on expectations. 

These meetings are **your** dedicated time to discuss your career growth, address concerns, and get feedback. 

To make the most of these sessions, it's essential to come prepared with thoughtful questions. 

Here are some tips on how to maximize your 1:1 meeting and some questions to consider asking.

### **Preparation is Key**

Before your 1:1, take a moment to reflect on your recent work, challenges, and areas where you seek clarity. Write down topics you'd like to discuss and prioritize them. This not only shows your manager that you value the meeting but also ensures you cover essential points.

*I use a rolling document (open to both manager and individual) to capture thoughts throughout the week. Some of the best practice I have seen is to divide your thoughts into 'read-only' and 'discussion' sections to optimise the use of time.* 

### **Be Open to Feedback**

1:1s are a safe space for constructive feedback. Embrace it. Feedback helps you grow and understand areas of improvement. Your manager will also crave feedback, this is your opportunity to surface that feedback. 

Remember, it's about your development, not criticism.

### **Listen Actively**

While it's essential to convey your points, it's equally important to listen. Understand your manager's perspective, and ask follow-up questions if needed.

### **Follow Up**

After your meeting, use your rolling document to capture a brief summary of what was discussed and the next steps. This ensures both you and your manager are on the same page.

Here are 20 starter questions that will help you in your next 1:1 meeting with your manager:

### **Performance and Feedback:**

1. What areas of my work do you think need improvement?
2. What's your feedback on \[specific project/task\] I recently completed?
3. How can I better align my work with the company's goals?
4. What are the most significant successes you've observed in my performance recently?
5. Are there any concerns about my work that we haven't addressed?

### **Team Dynamics and Collaboration:**

1. What are the top priorities for our team this quarter?
2. How can I support the team better?
3. What challenges do you foresee for our team in the upcoming months?
4. How can I better collaborate with other departments or teams?
5. How can I help in mentoring or supporting newer team members?

### **Professional Development:**

1. Are there any additional resources or training you'd recommend for me?
2. Are there opportunities for me to take on more responsibility or leadership roles?
3. How do you see my role evolving in the next year?
4. Are there skills or experiences you think I should gain to progress in my career?
5. What are some industry trends you think I should be aware of?

### **Communication:**

1. How can I be more effective in my communication with the team and stakeholders?
2. What's the best way for me to give you feedback?

### **Future Initiatives and Planning:**

1. Are there upcoming projects or initiatives you think I should be involved in?
2. How can I better manage my workload and priorities?

### **Meeting Effectiveness:**

1. How can we make our 1:1s more productive and beneficial for both of us?

The 1:1 meeting is a golden opportunity to align with your manager, gain insights, and drive your career forward. By coming prepared and asking the right questions, you can ensure these sessions are productive and beneficial. 

Remember, the goal is aligned understanding and growth, so approach these meetings with an open mind and a proactive attitude.