• Create comprehensive list of all employees to meet
• Inform direct managers about the initiative
• Send formal communication to managers explaining the purpose
• Frame the initiative positively to avoid misconceptions
Skip Level One on One Meeting Checklist
Skip level meetings enable leaders to bypass the management layer and connect directly with employees, fostering open communication and gathering valuable insights about the organization's health.
These meetings provide an opportunity to identify potential issues, recognize top performers, and build trust between leadership and staff, promoting a transparent workplace culture.
A well-prepared checklist ensures that conversations stay focused, key topics are covered—like team morale, workload, and growth opportunities—and follow-ups are
Purpose and Benefits
Skip level meetings are crucial for:
Building trust across levels
Improving communication flow
Identifying organizational issues
Understanding frontline perspectives
1. Pre-Meeting Planning
Initial Setup
Employee Communication
• Send meeting invitations to employees
• Clearly communicate meeting expectations
• Provide context about the meeting's purpose
• Set clear guidelines for confidentiality
2. Meeting Organization
Scheduling Strategy
• Block dedicated weekly hours for meetings
• Schedule meetings in manageable batches
• Allow adequate time between meetings
• Consider time zones and work schedules
3. Meeting Preparation
Key Questions to Ask
Organizational Insights
• Where do you see gaps in the organization?
• What organizational decisions have disappointed you?
• What important rumors should leadership be aware of?
Management Feedback
• What are your thoughts about your current manager?
• What do you appreciate most about your manager?
• What management changes would you suggest?
Role Satisfaction
• How does your current role match your expectations?
• What would make your role more fulfilling?
• What's your proudest achievement recently?
4. Meeting Conduct Guidelines
Best Practices
• Let the employee drive the conversation
• Avoid discussing current work status
• Keep meetings concise but meaningful
• Encourage open and honest feedback
• Maintain strict confidentiality
5. Post-Meeting Actions
Follow-up Steps
• Document key insights and action items
• Address urgent concerns appropriately
• Share relevant feedback with management
• Schedule follow-up meetings if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should skip level meetings be conducted?
Skip level meetings are typically conducted quarterly or bi-annually, depending on organization size and structure. More frequent meetings may be beneficial during significant organizational changes or for specific projects.
How to maintain confidentiality in skip level meetings?
Establish clear confidentiality guidelines at the start, specify what can be shared with direct managers, and maintain professional discretion. Document sensitive information securely and respect privacy agreements.
What makes skip level meetings effective?
Effective skip level meetings require clear objectives, open communication, active listening, and meaningful follow-up actions. Focus on building trust and understanding while avoiding undermining direct managers.
How to handle sensitive feedback about direct managers?
Listen without judgment, maintain confidentiality, and focus on constructive solutions. Address serious issues through appropriate HR channels while encouraging direct communication when possible.
What to avoid in skip level meetings?
Avoid undermining direct managers, making promises outside your authority, sharing confidential information, or creating unrealistic expectations. Focus on understanding and improvement rather than criticism.