Chapter 1: The Value of Skip Level Meetings

As a mid-level manager or higher, you oversee a group of managers who directly manage their own teams. A key question arises: how can you assess the effectiveness of these leaders? Moreover, how can you foster relationships with their team members?

Drawing from a decade of experience in guiding other managers, I've found that conducting skip level 1:1 meetings is the most effective way to build relationships with team members and gain valuable insights into their leaders' performance. In these meetings, I bypass the leader and engage directly with the team members, dedicating 30 to 45 minutes for each meeting on a quarterly basis.

The Advantages of Skip Level Meetings

1. Personal Connections: You can interact with a larger group on an individual basis. This allows team members to learn about you while you discover valuable information about them.
2. Open Communication: These meetings provide an opportunity for team members to share their experiences, challenges, and suggestions for improving their work environment.
3. Building Trust: Establishing trust is crucial. Team members will feel more comfortable approaching you in the future.

Steps to Conduct Successful Skip Level Meetings

#### 1) Establish the Right Atmosphere

It’s essential to create an environment where these meetings are perceived as casual and routine rather than intimidating. Upon assuming a director role, I communicated my intent to hold skip level 1:1 meetings frequently, ensuring that both managers and their teams understood the purpose.

#### 2) Prepare in Advance

Recognizing that meetings with higher-ups can be nerve-wracking, it's beneficial to plan ahead to facilitate a smooth conversation. Schedule these meetings at least two weeks in advance and include a note in the calendar invite to set a relaxed tone, such as:

"Opportunity to catch up, connect, and discuss the future. This is intended to be informal. Feel free to bring up anything!"

Some potential discussion topics might include:

• What achievements are you proud of this year?
• What excites you about the upcoming year?
• What challenges do you face at work?
• What do you need from me as your leader?

By providing these starter questions, team members can prepare, making the conversation flow more naturally.

#### 3) Follow Up

After the meeting, send a thank you note expressing gratitude for their time. Mention a point of interest you discussed and address any concerns raised during your conversation.

Be prepared for candid feedback when you inquire about their relationship with their direct leader. Acknowledging the difficulty of sharing such insights is crucial, and expressing appreciation for their trust will encourage open communication.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Be Mindful of Your Energy Levels: Engaging in meaningful conversations can be draining. Limit yourself to 2-3 meetings a day and allow breaks in between.
2. Take Notes: Keep track of personal details about each team member, such as their family, hobbies, or vacation plans. This will help you connect on a deeper level and remember important aspects of their lives.
3. Avoid Rescheduling: Prioritize these meetings over other commitments to show your team that their time is valuable.
4. Enjoy the Process: These meetings should be enjoyable. They provide a chance to connect with your team on a human level.
5. Share About Yourself: While the focus should be on the team member, sharing a little about your own life can help strengthen the relationship.

As you advance in your career, maintaining connections with all team members becomes critical for organizational success. Skip level meetings are an invaluable tool in enhancing your leadership effectiveness.

Karen McLaughlin, a professional in HR Talent Development, shares insights on communication, personal growth, and leadership strategies.

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Chapter 3: Improving Leadership Skills at Work

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