Example Questions to Engage in Conversation

The following are examples of questions you could incorporate into your one-on-one meetings to spark meaningful and productive conversations.

Engagement & Recognition

  • What talents, skills, or interests do you have that you would like to use more?
  • What do you find most rewarding about your current role?
  • What part of your work energizes you?
  • What are you passionate about in your role?
  • Do you feel challenged enough in your current role?
  • How can we better recognize your contributions to our team and the university?
  • What accomplishments or successes are you proud of? 

Professional & Career Development

  • What types of training or development opportunities most interest you?
  • Are there any specific skills, abilities, or knowledge that you would like to enhance?
  • What can I do to help you grow as a professional?
  • What are your long-term career goals?

General Check-in

  • What are your top three priorities for next month?
  • What is the one thing that you are working on that is stressing you now?
  • How is your current project progressing?
  • Do you have any questions or concerns about any of the activities/projects you are working on?
  • How can I support you in achieving your goals?
  • Are there any bottlenecks that are stopping you from getting work completed? How can I help?

Teamwork & Collaboration

  • Do you have any suggestions for enhancing how our team works, communicates and collaborates?
  • How would you describe our team culture? What can I do to enhance it?
  • Is there anything that is concerning you about our work environment?

Feedback

  • What feedback do you have for me?
  • Is there anything I can do to give you more guidance/support?
  • Is there anything you are currently struggling with that I can help you work through?
  • We haven’t been able to meet this project milestone, let’s work together to figure it out.

Workload & Well-being

  • How would you describe your workload currently?
  • What are your top priorities, and are there any tasks or projects that we may need to reprioritize?
  • Are there any activities/projects that are taking longer than planned?
  • Are there any specific deadlines or milestones that you are concerned about?
  • During this challenging time, what steps are you taking to prioritize your mental health?