Art of Elevating Leadership 1:1s

Have you ever heard a leader you look up to say to a crowd something like: "feel free to set-up time, my calendar is open"? If so, I am the guy who followed-up with leaders I admired (even when they didn't say their calendar was open). Through years of 1:1s, I have learned simple steps to optimize these connections. In general, you can never do wrong having a humble mindset of learning when meeting with an experienced leader you admire.

Tips for Effectiveness

1. Plan a brief connect (i.e. 30 minutes). Schedule a slot which has open time before and after. Remember luck is when preparation meets opportunity. The opportunity is the meeting, the preparation is you! Do homework - what do you want to learn from this leader, what are your shared passions? Send the Pre-Read Agenda (twice) in advance - 1 Week prior and 1 Day prior (copy Admin., if they have one) because things get lost in cyberspace. Make sure you arrive (virtual, or in person) 15 minutes early with 2 pens and 2 hard copies of the Pre-Read.

   
   

   Structure Pre-Read as follows:

   1. Share your current responsibilities and previous contributions (this is like an "elevator speech", 4x8 - no more than 4 bullets, no more than 8 words per bullet). Don't plan to talk this topic unless asked. Plan 0-5 minutes.

   2. State the question. "What were your key career learnings which made you believe in and/or accomplish ..X" (..X = insert what inspired you from your homework). The leader does the talking (you ask questions for clarity). For respect, ask permission to take confidential handwritten notes (put away phone to avoid distractions). Plan 15-20 minutes.

   3. Ask for feedback. "Based on my career status what key actions do you recommend?" The answers could range from books to read, changes in how to deliver results, and/or other resources to talk to (they might even establish the connection). Again, the leader does the talking. Plan 10-15 minutes. Be the time-keeper, if approaching 30 minutes, ensure they are OK with upcoming meetings. It is also OK if 1:1 ends early!

      
      

2. Within 24 hours, send an email to them of your key notes on learnings, feedback, and actions they recommended. If there was an agreed reconnect, set that date as well.

   
   

3. Within 1 Month, send an email to them of results from actions you took with a note of thanks. This confirms to the leader the 1:1 was valued time with you!

From my experience, whether you and your admired leader have chemistry or not, you will learn new perspectives and they will spread their legacy of teachings to improve the organization. With the tips above, you could end up with life changing advice, a Sponsor, new Friend, and/or Mentor. Never fear leadership 1:1 opportunities to elevate your knowledge!

Going up can seem intimidating.

Until you reach the Top.

© Nuri Dimler 2025