advice for connecting better with my manager?
I have one-on-one’s with my manager every three weeks.
I’ll usually ask a few questions related to my project/team/organization, but that’s about it. My manager will ask if I have any other questions and I honestly usually don’t.
These one-on-one’s are getting repetitive and they have such a formal work vibe and I don’t know how to change that. I’m also honestly running out of questions to ask and (work-related) topics to talk about. I do have social anxiety, so I’ll often let my manager lead the meeting and they’ll just stick to work topics about 99% of the time.
Does anyone have advice for connecting better with my manager? I think I have this mental block from being anxious about the 1:1’s, so I just stick to the work talk and don’t really deviate too much from that other than simple small talk.
One-on-one meetings are essential for effective communication between employees and managers. They provide an opportunity for feedback, discussions about performance, and personal connection. To make your 1:1s more meaningful, consider preparing thoughtful questions in advance. Instead of primarily discussing work-related topics, try to incorporate personal interests or current events that might resonate with both you and your manager. This can help to break the ice and create a more relaxed atmosphere. Additionally, don’t hesitate to share your career aspirations or seek advice on professional development; this can aid in building a stronger rapport. To alleviate social anxiety, practice mindfulness or grounding techniques before the meeting. This can help calm nerves and encourage more genuine interaction. Remember, your manager is likely interested in knowing you better as a team member, and sharing your thoughts can help foster that relationship. Finally, be open about your struggles with anxiety if you feel comfortable doing so; this transparency can lead to mutual understanding and support.
Ohhh, you so boujee.