Let's talk about how you handle 1:1 meetings with team members at Evernote.

Question Analysis

The interviewer is interested in understanding your approach to conducting one-on-one meetings with team members. This is a crucial aspect of leadership and management as it reflects how you communicate, support, and develop your team. They want to know about your methods, the frequency of these meetings, the topics you discuss, and how you ensure these meetings are effective and beneficial for both you and your team members. This is not specifically a behavioral question, but it may benefit from incorporating examples of how you conduct these meetings.

Answer

Handling 1:1 Meetings with Team Members at Evernote

When conducting one-on-one meetings with my team members, I focus on creating an open and supportive environment that encourages honest communication and team development. Here’s how I handle these meetings:

• Preparation:

  • I prepare by reviewing the team member’s recent performance, any ongoing projects, and their professional development goals.
  • I encourage the team member to set the agenda or suggest topics they wish to discuss, ensuring the meeting addresses their concerns and priorities.

• Frequency and Timing:

  • I schedule these meetings on a regular basis, typically bi-weekly, to maintain consistent communication.
  • I ensure the timing is convenient for the team member and that we have sufficient time to cover all necessary topics.

• Structure:

  • Start with Personal Check-in: I begin with a brief personal check-in to understand the team member’s current state of mind and any personal factors that might affect their work.
  • Discuss Projects and Performance: We review progress on current projects, address any challenges, and discuss performance feedback.
  • Career Development: We talk about the team member’s career aspirations and identify opportunities for growth and development, such as training or new assignments.
  • Feedback and Support: I provide constructive feedback and ask for feedback about my leadership, ensuring I understand how I can better support them.

• Follow-up:

  • After the meeting, I summarize the key points discussed and any action items via email to ensure clarity and accountability.
  • I follow up on any agreed actions and provide additional support as needed.

By maintaining this structured and supportive approach, I ensure that one-on-one meetings are productive and contribute to the team member's engagement and development within Evernote.