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Scott & Mark Learn To… What Makes Good 1-1s

August 20, 2025 · 21 min

Show notes

In this episode, Scott Hanselman and Mark Russinovich share strategies for conducting more effective and purposeful one-on-one meetings. They emphasize the value of tailoring the approach to each individual, encouraging agenda-setting in advance, and prioritizing critical topics to ensure they are addressed. The discussion covers best practices for providing and receiving constructive feedback, maintaining visibility across teams, and striking a balance between trust and accountability. They also address the importance of recognizing contributions, differentiating between credit and “lift,” and using one-on-ones to proactively identify and remove obstacles.


Takeaways:   

  • Tailor meeting style to each person’s preferences for communication and frequency
  • Avoid over-preparation or unnecessary large meetings when a small discussion will suffice
  • Share discussion topics ahead of one-on-ones with senior leaders to maximize value


Who are they?    

View Scott Hanselman on LinkedIn 

View Mark Russinovich on LinkedIn  


Watch Scott and Mark Learn on YouTube

      

Listen to other episodes at scottandmarklearn.to 

        

Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts  


Produced by Hangar Studios

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