Remote Work 1:1 Meeting Template: Maintain Connection at a Distance
A focused 30-minute template for managing remote team members effectively. Address key challenges of virtual work and ensure alignment despite physical distance.
Managing remote team members requires intentional communication and support. This template provides a focused framework for conducting effective 30-minute 1:1s with remote employees, ensuring connection, alignment, and productivity in a virtual environment.
Before the Meeting
- Schedule 30 minutes via video conference
- Test video/audio equipment
- Send brief agenda points
- Review previous actions
- Consider time zones
- Close other applications
- Have key documents ready
Meeting Structure
Opening (3 minutes)
Create a quick personal connection:
“Let’s start with a brief check-in before diving into work topics.”
Quick check-in:
- “How are you doing today?”
- “How is your remote setup working?”
- “Any immediate concerns we should address?”
Remote Work Status (10 minutes)
Assess current situation and needs:
Key questions:
- “How is your work-life balance currently?”
- “Any technical issues affecting your work?”
- “Do you have all the tools you need?”
- “How connected do you feel to the team?”
- “What’s working well? What isn’t?”
Progress and Priorities (12 minutes)
Review work and align on goals:
Focus areas:
- Key project updates
- Current blockers
- Upcoming deadlines
- Resource needs
- Team collaboration
Essential questions:
- “What progress have you made on priorities?”
- “What’s blocking your work?”
- “What support do you need?”
- “How is your workload level?”
- “Any communication gaps to address?”
Action Planning (5 minutes)
Set clear next steps:
Quick Plan:
- Confirm priorities
- Address urgent needs
- Schedule follow-ups
- Define success metrics
- Agree on communication
After the Meeting
- Document key points
- Share brief summary
- Track commitments
- Schedule check-ins
- Follow up on actions
Weekly Quick Check (15 minutes)
Updates (5 minutes)
- Priority progress
- Current challenges
- Team connections
Support (5 minutes)
- Resource needs
- Technical issues
- Communication gaps
Next Steps (5 minutes)
- Action items
- Follow-ups
- Quick wins
Additional Resources
- Remote: Office Not Required by Jason Fried
- Work Together Anywhere by Lisette Sutherland
Remember: Focus on the most pressing remote work needs and maintain regular touch points between meetings for ongoing support.