How often should managers hold 1:1 meetings with your team members?

This was a question that came up in a recent management training. 

How would you answer it? 

Most people seem to think it’s maximum weekly, minimum fortnightly. However, I reckon it depends on a number of factors like the experience of the team member, the nature of their work and the input (or not) required by the manager. 

Here is what I see as a good approach:

•  Agree on a mutually appropriate cadence,
•  Review after 90 days, and
•  Adjusting if required.

What is most important is that whatever frequency you determine, you be consistent. One of the worst things a manager can do is schedule regular one on one meetings and then cancel them when other priorities get in the way.

Your availability and commitment to these types of meetings sends a clear message about how much you value your team members.