Have regular one-to-one time with direct reports

The most important part of your work as a leader is to support your team in their work and in their professional life as a whole.

Yet many agency leaders haven't had any training or gradual climb up the promotion ladder to learn how to do this — they suddenly find themselves in charge and just have to figure it out.

That means they see one-to-ones as something uncomfortable that they don't quite know how to handle.

But having this time with you, in which to discuss key issues and get support, is vital for your team.

Purpose

One to Ones (1-1s) are a chance for the team member to 'have your ear and get your steer'. A chance for them to get their bosses input and help into:

• improving their work

• improving their enjoyment and fulfilment in their work

• handling challenges they are facing

• developing their skills and wisdom

• developing their career.

Don't mix them up with performance reviews, pay reviews or anything else. This is entirely a coaching approach to supporting your team members' needs.

Scheduling

The worst feeling in the world for a team member is when their boss asks to schedule a 1-1 meeting with them. As humans we can't help but worry we've done something wrong or it's bad news.