Andy Grove One on One Preparation

A 25 minute prep sequence based on Andy Grove's one on one preparation model from High Output Management.

5 time blocks, 25 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Review Previous One-on-One Notes: 5 min
Audit outstanding action items and promises from the last meeting
Audit Subordinate Agenda and Work Status: 5 min
Read the direct report's outline and current project metrics
Identify Operational Bottlenecks: 5 min
Note underlying friction points, risks, or potential blind spots
Draft Probing Questions: 5 min
Write open ended questions to dive below surface status updates
Prepare Broader Context and Feedback: 5 min
Outline team strategic context and specific performance notes

About this routine

Andy Grove's one on one preparation method focuses on creating high impact conversations between managers and direct reports. In High Output Management, the former Intel CEO argued that one on one meetings are among a manager's most important responsibilities. Proper preparation transforms these sessions from routine updates into strategic problem solving sessions.

Grove believed that while the subordinate should own the agenda, the supervisor must come thoroughly prepared. This prep block involves auditing notes from previous meetings, tracking open commitments, and analyzing current project indicators to spot hidden bottlenecks before they turn into major delays.

By setting aside time to draft open ended questions and prepare contextual feedback, you ensure the conversation digs beneath surface status reports. This structured preparation helps surface operational friction, support employee growth, and align individual output with team objectives.

Why this routine works

Prevents one on one meetings from becoming simple status updates
Identifies operational bottlenecks and risks before meetings start
Ensures accountability by tracking past commitments and action items
Encourages deep open ended dialogue through targeted probing questions

FAQ

How did Andy Grove prepare for one on one meetings?

Andy Grove reviewed previous meeting notes, examined project status reports, and drafted open ended probing questions to surface hidden operational problems.

How long should one on one prep take?

In High Output Management, Grove suggested spending around 20 to 30 minutes preparing before each session to ensure maximum value during the conversation.

Who owns the agenda in an Andy Grove one on one?

Grove emphasized that the employee should drive the agenda, while the manager prepares by reviewing the outline and framing strategic questions.

Sources

High Output Management, Andy Grove (Vintage Books, 1983)
The Management Philosophy of Andy Grove, Harvard Business Review