Do you feel like you’re not getting the guidance, clarity, or feedback you need from your manager in your one-on-one meetings? If so, redirect the focus by asking the right questions.

Ask for guidance on tasks and projects:
* I’m having some challenges with X. Can you help me think about how to navigate it successfully?
* What do you think of my idea Z? Do you have any suggestions for how to improve it, or an alternative idea I should consider?

Clarify priorities and expectations:
* Given what’s on my plate, what should I be prioritizing right now, and can you help me understand why?
* As you review my workload, am I taking on the right projects?

Align with the organization and its strategy:
* To help me better understand the big picture, how does the work I’m doing fit into the company’s broader goals?
* What’s new in our company’s strategic priorities that you feel I should know about?

Seek growth opportunities and career advancement:
* What can I do to prepare myself for greater opportunities or to pursue X interest of mine?
* What should I be targeting as my next career move and why?

Get feedback on your performance:
* Am I meeting your expectations?
* I really value your perspective on my performance.What should I start, stop, or continue doing?
This tip is adapted from “28 Questions to Ask Your Boss in Your One-on-Ones,“by Steven G. Rogelberg et al.

Spread the love