I highly recommend creating an agenda for the meeting. I think others suggested the same approach.The Manager Tools recommendation for the first meeting with a new employee: Be honest, Be kind, Do well. One-on-ones put the employee and their growth at the center, not projects and tasks. They create space for employees to raise topics that are important to them. We provide counseling and case management services to eligible residents of Travis County. Learn how our social workers and case managers can help you. Figure out an agenda and goal beforehand, write it down, prioritize it and drive the meeting effectively. This guide covers every aspect of how to have effective and meaningful one-on-one meetings from both the employee and manager perspective. Then: "Here is what I'd like you to cover: Brief description of the issues, impact, background, proposed actions.