Making the Most out of Your One-On-One as a Software Developer


For a new software developer, the intention of a one-on-one might not be clear. To them, it is something that happens on a recurring schedule where they talk with their manager for some time then move along with their day. They view it as something that is not valuable and doesn’t take it seriously. This was exactly how I thought of one-on-one when I first started to have them with my manager. Over time that changes and I find one-on-one to be valuable after I went and research into what other software developers and engineers talk about during their one-on-one.

 

one-on-one

 

With my new understanding of what a one-on-one entails, it has lead me to the topic of this post.

 

Note: This is entirely based off my own experience as a software developer, so I am probably not capturing the manager’s perspective.


 

Be Prepared

 

A one-on-one shouldn’t have an agenda. If there is an agenda it would be you (the developer) who sets it not the manager. In most cases, a one-on-one would be freeform.

 

Although, a one-on-one is freeform that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have any talking points. Unless you’re very good at coming up with things on the spot, you should come up with some talking points. You’ll realize that there is some way to tie your talking points into the conversation somehow.

 

So, what exactly are some talking points you can have ready for your one-on-one you may ask? Well, here is a template to customize it into your own situation:

 

Wins

  • What you have accomplished since the last one-on-one

Concerns and Questions (Flex Agenda)

  • Basically anything you have concerns or questions about
    • Changes to the company/team
    • Conferences you find valuable to attend
    • Educational resources
    • Bonuses
    • Raises
    • Work-life balance issues
    • Feel you’re not paid your worth
    • You get the idea

Career Advancement

  • Talk about your progress for reaching each goal
  • Where do you want to head to next (stay in technical roles or move into management)

 

It’s Not a Status Update Meeting

 

Yes, a status update is very likely going to be something that is part of your one-on-one. However, the status update shouldn’t be the highlight of your one-on-one. A misconception that new software developer has about one-on-one is that it revolves around status update about their project. So, for your one-on-one do have a status update but it should be fast and to the point.

 

Talk About Your Goals and Career Plans

 

Your one-on-one is a great time to talk about your goals and career plans with your manager. Discuss your progress for meeting each goal and if there are blockers getting in your way of achieving them. Think of the progress discussion as a mini review that way there are no surprises when it comes time for annual review.

 

A valuable part of one-on-one, in my opinion, is talking about your career plans. Talk about where you want to be in the next year or two. Is there a promotion or change into a different role in the company you are eyeing for? Well, now is a good time to bring it up so they have you in mind when the opportunity comes along.

 

Do Mention Your Successes

 

You shouldn’t expect your manager to know all you have done. So, you should mention your successes to make them known. Now if you’re the humble type this might seem like you’re bragging, but it’s not. You should think of it as bringing awareness to your manager for what you’re doing and keeping them in the loop.

 

Ask for Feedback

 

Remember, I said a one-on-one can be like a mini review? Well, asking for feedback is why it is like one. It’s likely your manager will tell you points that will be in your annual review. So, why not find out about them early and do something to address them if necessary? That way surprises can be avoided at the annual review.

 

Personal Life Topics Are Not Off the Table

 

Involving personal life into a conversation at work sounds a little crazy to some. But guess what? You can share as much or as little as you want and it can help build a stronger relationship. It’s a bit of a balancing act, you should share as much about your personal life as your manager. So, if your manager is the type to stick to work stuff then don’t share.


 

I hope this post was helpful to you. If you found this post helpful, share it with others so they can benefit too.

 

What are your experiences with one-on-one? What do you normally talk about?

 

To stay in touch, follow me on Twitter, leave a comment, or send me an email at steven@brightdevelopers.com.


About Steven To

Steven To is a software developer that specializes in mobile development with a background in computer engineering. Beyond his passion for software development, he also has an interest in Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Artificial Intelligence, Personal Development, and Personal Finance. If he is not writing software, then he is out learning something new.