Mastering the First Manager Meeting

Overview

Your first real 1:1 with your manager can either be a check-the-box formality, or the beginning of a powerful partnership. In this session, you'll learn how to prepare for and lead a high-impact first conversation that builds alignment, sets expectations, and positions you as a valuable contributor right away. You’ll leave this session with a practical game plan, specific prompts, and proven strategies to confidently guide your first manager meeting and lay the foundation for a high-trust, high-performance relationship. ✅ KEY OUTCOMES / WHAT PARTICIPANTS WILL WALK AWAY WITH A clear structure and purpose for the first 1:1 with your manager A list of high-impact questions to ask that demonstrate initiative and build trust A framework for surfacing priorities and aligning on early expectations Tips to position yourself as a strategic partner, not just a task-taker Confidence to initiate meaningful conversations and show leadership early A customizable conversation prep worksheet to bring into the meeting 📅 SESSION AGENDA (35–40 minutes) Welcome & Context: Why the first meeting is a pivotal trust-building moment What Managers Want Early - Common needs, fears, and desires from a new hire Your First 1:1 Structure - How to approach the meeting, break down the topics, and drive the conversation Prompts, Phrases, & Smart Questions - The exact language and examples to use to get clear and build credibility Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them - What derails early relationships and how to recover or prevent it Q&A or Roleplay - Participants bring their situations or review sample manager types and how to adapt