eForms Logo

One-on-One Meeting Agenda Template

A one-on-one meeting agenda outlines a meeting between two parties, usually a manager and a staff member. Purposes may range from providing updates to developing professional relationships.
PDF Word ODT

Updated July 09, 2024

4.7 Stars | 58 Ratings
Downloads: 1,050

Introductory One-on-One Meeting

A first one-on-one meeting is a general “get to know you” arrangement. It can last 15-30 minutes and address the items below.

I. Personal Background

Everyone has a story, and people usually don’t mind talking about themselves. Perhaps they are wearing a baseball hat or attire with social commentary, so ask questions that will interest the person and encourage them to open up. For example:

  • Where did you grow up?
  • What school did you attend?
  • What is the makeup of your family at home?
  • What do you like to do in your free time?

II. Communication

Select the best way to communicate on a daily basis and for the one-on-one meeting. If the meeting does not occur in person or by telephone, the parties can choose to use an online meetup through a video conference application, such as Google Meet or Zoom.

III. Availability

For a business with a physical facility, this will allow the manager to get an idea of what shifts or hours are best for the individual. For remote workers, this is a good indicator of when to attempt regular communication with the employee.

IV. Goals and Aspirations

Find out the person’s goals and what they plan to do in the future, either within their current position or in their larger career path. For example, if the individual is happily married and has lived in the area their whole life, they may be a candidate for a longer-term position down the line. It is also recommended to ask their 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year goals.

V. Types of Work

This can help determine the individual’s specific role within the company. For example, if the person is good with computing, then they can handle more technical tasks.

VI. Frequency

Depending on the type of relationship, a scheduled one-on-one meeting occurs weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Most managers speak with their staff on a weekly basis to get updates and promote assignments.

Recurring One-on-One Meeting

A recurring one-on-one meeting is where staff or management can get together to better achieve the goals of the organization on an individual basis. The following business questions are recommended for a recurring meeting to produce a better working experience.

I. Personal Life

It’s always best to ask about the person’s personal life and “break the ice.” It’s always best to connect on a personal level before diving into business matters. Choose topics that you know they will either be interested in or have knowledge about.

II. Top-Line Issues

Ask if there are any current issues that need to be addressed right away. After a solution or feedback is given, the standard reporting and business matters are discussed.

III. Current Reports

Review and discuss any sales, customer service, expense, or other types of reports.

IV. Colleagues

Discuss whether other employees are happy with the company and speak positively both on and off work hours. Address any employee complaints that should be reported here.

V. Manager Support

Ask the employee if there are any aspects of their job that currently need your assistance or extra support. Discuss the issue and possible solutions, including ways you can help them directly.

VI. Creative Solutions

If there are any unresolved business matters, ask the individual what they think the solution should be. If they are close to the situation, their feedback is crucial in any final decision. If they are not close to the situation, their ideas may provide insight that might not otherwise have been considered.

VII. Goal Setting

Set goals and items to complete by the next meeting. If there are no other outstanding issues, the meeting ends.

Samples