1:1 Meetings are the cornerstone of a flourishing feedback culture. That’s why we developed 1:1 Meetings Automations to kickstart those essential conversations and solidify feedback habits. 

Beyond 1:1s Automations, we also wanted to make this feature versatile for different use cases. This Recipe goes beyond the basics and introduces you to the different types of 1:1s you can automate and their corresponding pre-built templates. Paired with our Help Center how-to, you’re on your way to more meaningful and productive conversations.

Let’s dive in and discover how Automations can power up your 1:1s.

But first, why should I automate 1:1s?

Time-saving convenience

1:1 Meetings Automations is all about saving time. No more back-and-forth trying to find a suitable time on everyone’s busy calendars. Our Automations eliminate the need for manual scheduling, freeing you up to focus on more important tasks.

Solution to calendar integrations

Using 1:1 Meetings Automations allows you to minimize the headaches associated with integrating calendars. With the push to use Automations, you can decrease the challenges faced with calendar integrations, creating an efficient and hassle-free experience. 

Choose from a set of built-in templates to supercharge the conversation 

1:1 Meetings Automations is not just simplifying the process—it’s also about enhancing the quality of your conversations. 

That’s why we’ve included a set of built-in templates that come with tailored Talking Points. These templates make setting up 1:1s quicker, providing you with an instant structure for meaningful conversations, such as:

1. Regular check-in
2. Connect with each other
3. Align on Objectives 
4. New hires check-in
5. Careers check-in

Let’s take a look at the different meeting types and what templates can be used:

Types of meetings 

1. Regular 1:1 check-in

Consistent communication is the secret for maintaining productivity and engagement. The employee-focused nature that goes beyond status updates is what makes the 1:1 special. It’s often considered the most important meeting you can have because it lays the foundation for a trusting and productive work relationship.

Template suggestion 

Use the Regular Check-in Template to:

• Facilitate ongoing conversations and keep you in sync with your team.
• Discuss updates, challenges, and wins, and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
• Connect and forge stronger bonds within your team.

2. Connect with each other

We’ve all heard it – teamwork makes the dream work. Having strong relationships with our coworkers is one of the key things that keeps us engaged at work – unsurprisingly, 77% of employees say it’s really important to them. So, it’s clear that connecting with our colleagues is crucial for enjoying our job and feeling content at work. 

Great rapport between employees can also create inspired collaborations and partnerships at work. When people understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, they can work together effectively by complementing each other’s abilities and filling in the gaps. 

Template suggestion 

The Get to Know Each Other template is great for:

• Fostering connections between colleagues who may not interact regularly.
• Connect with colleagues on a deeper level and find out what drives and inspires them, what they’re role is about, and potential collaboration opportunities.

3. Align on Objectives

Imagine this: You and your team have set some ambitious objectives, and now it’s time to check on progress and keep everyone aligned. Instead of spending valuable time juggling calendars and chasing people down for updates, you can let 1:1 Meetings Automations take care of it for you. Stay on track, save time, and watch those objectives turn into remarkable achievements.

Template suggestion 

Use the Objectives Setting template, with suggested talking points that help:

• Automate 1:1s focused on aligning goals and tracking progress
• Discuss milestones, provide feedback, and ensure that everyone is moving in the right direction

4. New hires check-in

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to the onboarding stage of new hires. Making sure they feel welcomed and supported from day one is crucial. With 1:1 Meetings Automations, automating onboarding check-ins ensures you don’t miss the important first feedback for new hires.

Template suggestion 

The Onboarding Check-in Template is here to:

• Give your new hires a warm welcome, streamline the onboarding process, and set them up for success from day one.
• Ensures that new employees feel supported, can ask questions, and get up to speed seamlessly. 

5. Career check-ins quarterly 

Career growth and development should never take a back seat. Having dedicated career check-ins allows employees to discuss their career goals, explore opportunities, and track progress. 

Use 1:1 Meetings Automations to create career-focused conversations to foster professional development, engage with your manager, and keep your career trajectory on an upward path. 

Example Talking Points:

• What are you most passionate about?
• What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
• How can we measure your progress towards your goals?
• What kind of work environment do you thrive in?
• What are some ways that the company can support your career development?
• What are some ways that I can help you achieve your career goals?
• What are some areas where you’d like to grow and develop?
• What are some things that you’re working on to achieve your career goals?

Follow up with Action Items

In 1:1 Meetings, you can create Action Items that live on your homepage and 1:1 meetings phage.  They are a powerful way to drive future talking points in 1:1 meetings, and to ensure that nothing important falls through the cracks. 

Action Items automatically roll over to the next meeting if they are not yet complete. This makes it easy to start the next meeting by reviewing the Action Items from the previous meeting, and to discuss the progress on each item.

To make the most out of Action Items, make sure to:

• Prioritize tasks: Use the High, Medium, or Low priority tags to categorize Action Items based on their importance and urgency. Focus on high-priority items first to maximize productivity.

• Review regularly: Take the time to review existing Action Items and update their status (e.g., mark as completed) before each meeting. This keeps the list current and relevant.

• Limit the number of Action Items: Avoid overwhelming yourself or your team with too many Action Items. Prioritize the most important tasks to maintain productivity and prevent burnout.