ONE-ON-ONE QUESTIONS · 13 QUESTIONS
Wellbeing check-in questions for one-on-ones
A good wellbeing check-in is simple: a real question, time to answer, and a manager who listens without rushing to fix. These questions open the door without forcing anyone through it. You are not a counsellor, and you do not need to be.
Opening questions
- How are you really doing, outside of work stuff?
- On a scale of one to ten, how is your energy this week?
- What has been the hardest part of the last couple of weeks?
- What is one thing that went well recently?
Workload
- Is your workload manageable right now?
- What could we take off your plate or push back?
- Are you able to switch off in the evenings and at weekends?
- Is there a deadline worrying you that I should know about?
Support
- Is there anything going on that would help me to know about? You do not need to share details.
- What would make next week a bit easier?
- Would more flexibility in your hours help at the moment?
- What do you need from me right now: advice, help, or just someone to listen?
- Is there anyone in the team who seems to be struggling that I should check on?
How to run it
- Ask once, then wait. Silence is fine. Many people need a second invitation.
- If someone shares something serious, thank them, ask what would help, and point them to your company’s support (such as an employee assistance programme or HR).
- Follow up a few days later. That small step shows you meant the question.
What to avoid
- Pushing for details they have not offered.
- Diagnosing or giving medical advice.
- Saying "everyone is busy" or comparing their situation with yours.
FREE TOOL
Build the agenda and keep your notes
Add these questions to a one-on-one agenda in the free notebook, take notes in the meeting, and carry the actions to next time.
Open the one-on-one notebookMore one-on-one questions
- First one-on-one questions to ask a new direct report
- One-on-one questions for remote employees
- One-on-one questions for new employees (first 90 days)
- Career development questions to ask in one-on-ones
- Questions to ask your team for feedback on your management
- One-on-one questions for an underperforming employee
- One-on-one questions for high performers (to keep them)