One-on-Ones
Regular, structured conversations for growth, alignment, and unblockers.
Explanation
Intel's legendary CEO Andy Grove calculated that 90 minutes of quality one-on-one time can improve someone's performance for two weeks—an incredible return on investment. These aren't status meetings (which waste everyone's time) but focused conversations about their challenges, growth, and career development. The key is making it their agenda, not yours.
Real-World Example
Bad 1:1: Manager talks whole time about project status. Good 1:1: 10 mins personal connection, 20 mins their challenges/growth, 15 mins feedback both ways, 15 mins career development. Employee leaves energized, not drained.
How to Apply
Weekly or biweekly. Same time—shows priority. Their agenda (you add 1-2 items max). Questions: What's blocking you? What's unclear? How can I help? Where do you want to grow? Share context they lack. Give feedback immediately, not annually. Take notes, follow up on commitments.