Check your empathy first

Before discussing performance in a 1:1 meeting, check your empathy first. You want to add value and find out how your direct report feels.

• Does the person you're managing feel invested in your company or team goals?
• Does he/she feel as if you've got his/her back?
• Do you know what motivates him/her?
• Both parties must get something out of this relationship. What are you offering vs. what you're expecting?
• Does your direct report understand what he/she is supposed to do? How to do it?
• Does he/she have the right training, right scope, proper authority, right resources, and enough time to do as you need?
• Does he/she know how important your ask is?
• What does he/she need from you or other colleagues?
• Is he/she encountering bottlenecks?