How to Use the Relational 1:1 Agreement

A simple guide

This agreement is designed to help you have clearer, more purposeful 1:1 conversations.
It works best when it’s used as a shared conversation, not a form to fill in and file away.

When to use it

Use the Relational 1:1 Agreement:

• at the start of a new working relationship

• when roles, expectations, or workloads change

• if 1:1s feel unclear, reactive, or repetitive

• as a reset when trust, communication, or momentum needs strengthening.

You don’t need a problem to use this tool. It’s just as useful when things are going well.

How to introduce it

You might say: “I’d like us to spend some time agreeing on how we use our 1:1s, so they’re useful for both of us.”

Set aside a full 1:1 where possible. This is about alignment, not rushing.

How to work through the agreement

• Complete it together during the 1:1

• Talk as you go, don’t aim for perfect wording

• Use the prompts to guide discussion, not to box yourselves in

• Be honest about what you each need right now.

If something feels unclear or uncomfortable, that’s often the most important part to talk through.