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Antiwork

Some people forget that 1:1 meetings are bi-directional

I've been at many workplaces where the employee sits there and the manager spells out the good and bad, details upcoming work, talks about training, company policy, etc. It's often the case that the employee is the receiver. One time, with about 15 minutes left, I said that I wanted to make sure enough time was left to provide my input to the manager. After all, it is a one-on-one, correct? Stunned. It actually worked out well. Just come prepared with factual observations, and actionable points. “I respond best when you use this communication style.” “You did a good job defusing that tension, and here is some additional advice to consider.” Keep it respectful. If this is not well received, it might be a sign that there is a cultural problem. If it is embraced, then you probably have a good thing!


I've been at many workplaces where the employee sits there and the manager spells out the good and bad, details upcoming work, talks about training, company policy, etc. It's often the case that the employee is the receiver.

One time, with about 15 minutes left, I said that I wanted to make sure enough time was left to provide my input to the manager. After all, it is a one-on-one, correct? Stunned.

It actually worked out well. Just come prepared with factual observations, and actionable points. “I respond best when you use this communication style.” “You did a good job defusing that tension, and here is some additional advice to consider.” Keep it respectful.

If this is not well received, it might be a sign that there is a cultural problem. If it is embraced, then you probably have a good thing!

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