
Rethinking One-on-Ones in Leadership
For many leaders, the impulse to foster open communication often translates into a commitment to frequent one-on-ones. However, as CEO Melissa discovered through her discussions with her CHRO, an overabundance of these meetings can create more confusion than clarity. Team members may end up hearing about decisions from their peers instead of their leaders, which can undermine trust and transparency.
The Paradox of Connection: Is More Communication Always Better?
In an age where collaboration is essential for innovation, it is easy to equate numerous meetings with good leadership. Contrary to popular belief, excessive one-on-ones might hinder effective communication rather than enhance it. Leaders should focus not only on frequency but on the quality and relevancy of their interactions. Understanding when to step back can be just as important as knowing when to engage.
Strategic Insufficiency: The Importance of Decision-Making Visibility
Decisions made in isolation can create a disconnect within teams. As seen in Melissa’s case, confusion arose when significant changes went uncommunicated. By reducing the number of one-on-ones, leaders can allocate time to larger group meetings that provide better visibility into important company decisions, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Empowering Teams Through Clear Communication
The goal should be to transform the way information flows within organizations. Leaders can achieve this by encouraging team members to share insights and updates more freely. When leaders trust their teams to communicate collaboratively, they cultivate an environment of shared ownership and accountability, empowering everyone to contribute to the dialogue.
A New Approach to Leadership: Prioritizing Connection over Frequency
This shift in strategy can be particularly valuable for women entrepreneurs, who often navigate complex team dynamics. Emphasizing meaningful interactions over sheer numbers can enhance leadership efficacy and innovation. Effective leaders know when to have one-on-ones and when to connect their teams to understand what’s happening contextually throughout the organization.
For those in leadership roles, evaluating how often one-on-ones occur is crucial. Leaders should aim to create communication practices that facilitate clarity while enabling team members to feel informed and involved. Innovating around strategies like making decisions more visible can lead to healthier work environments, driving both engagement and productivity.
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