Questions for the first 1-1 with your new direct report

(Some of these are taken/adapted from Lara Hogan’s list)

🏢 Management

(Make sure to ask lots of follow up questions on these two especially.)

• What do you want in a manager? And what do you not want?
• What makes 1-1s valuable for you? What makes them a waste of time?

🌱 Goals and Support

• What are your goals for the next three months? How about the next year?
• What made you choose those goals?
• What do you need from others (me, the team, etc.) to hit those goals?
• Do you have any longer term career aspirations, like 5-10 years out?

💬 Feedback and Recognition

• How do you like feedback (in Slack vs. in person, immediately vs. the next 1-1, etc.)?
• How do you want to receive recognition (public vs. private, for example)?
• What should your team do to treat you or make you feel appreciated or cared for?

😡 Grumpiness

• What makes you grumpy or low-energy?
• How will I know when you’re feeling that way?
• How can I help you when that happens?

👂 Finally

• Anything else I should know that will help me be the best manager I can for you?