Building Stronger Connections: Getting to Know Your Team
- Lisa Carver
- May 12
- 2 min read
For leadership and learning professionals, truly understanding what makes each team member tick is invaluable. When you take the time to connect meaningfully, you can uncover what motivates, challenges, and inspires each individual. These insights help create a more engaged, aligned, and productive team environment. One powerful way to do this is by using conversation prompts to foster honest, revealing discussions.
Guide to Working with Me: Conversation Prompts
Consider using our ‘Guide to Working with Me’ conversation prompts in your one-to-ones, especially during a new team member’s first 100 days. These prompts encourage open conversations, allowing you to better understand what each person values, what they need, and how they work best. Here are some example prompts:
· You get the best of me when…
· You get the worst of me when…
· The signs I give out when I’m struggling are…
· At work, I want to be famous for…
· You can count on me to…
· I get the most work done when…
· What helps me is…
· My favourite day at work this year was…because…
· My worst day at work this year was…because…
· I learn quickest/best when…
· This is what I bring to the team…
· This is what I need from the team…
Adopting a Coaching Approach
To make the most of these conversations, consider taking a coaching approach. Coaching involves active listening, thoughtful questioning, and a genuine interest in each person’s development. When leaders approach one-to-ones with curiosity and openness, it creates a safe space where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. This builds trust and allows you to adapt your leadership style to best support each individual.
These conversation prompts are particularly useful in one-to-ones and during the first 100 days when a new team member joins. They provide insights that help you understand each person’s unique strengths, preferences, and areas where they might need extra support. The result? A more connected, motivated, and high-performing team that feels genuinely understood by its leaders.
In the fast-paced world of work, taking time to know your team deeply can be a game-changer. By fostering meaningful conversations and demonstrating a commitment to their growth, you empower your team to thrive and contribute their best every day.
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