The Intentional One-on-One Conversation

What if one-on-one meetings stopped feeling like another thing you’re supposed to do and started feeling like authentic leadership? In this 60-minute session, Michelle Ornat shares practical insights to help supervisors hold one-on-one conversations with greater clarity, presence, and ease. The session explores why one-on-ones so often miss the mark or don’t happen at all, and how small mindset shifts and light preparation can transform these meetings into meaningful leadership moments. Relevant for supervisors at any stage, you will be introduced to three core purposes of intentional one-on-one conversations: connection, direction, and cultivation. Understanding these purposes helps supervisors build rapport through dialogue, provide clear direction, and support employee development.

As a result of this program, attendees will learn how to:

• Hold one-on-one meetings with clarity by identifying whether the primary purpose is connection, direction, or cultivation
• Prepare their mindset based on what is most needed in each conversation
• Use simple techniques to make one-on-ones more focused and effective

Who Will Benefit from this Program:

• All Staff
• Supervisors and Managers
• Those preparing for or stepping into leadership roles
• Anyone seeking to improve communication, create impact, and contribute more effectively within their team and organization

This project is made possible by grant funds from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) administered by the State of Michigan through the Library of Michigan.