Skip-level meeting questions

Open with

Thanks for making the time. This isn’t a performance conversation and you’re not in trouble. I meet people across the team because I want to hear what it’s really like to work here, and what I can do to make it better. I’ll keep what you say confidential unless you’re happy for me to share it, and if something needs action I’ll check with you first how to handle it.

• What does a typical week look like for you right now?
• What part of your work do you enjoy most?

• What slows you down most in a normal week?
• If you could fix one process tomorrow, what would it be?

• What does your manager do that helps you most?

• What would you like to be doing in a year or two?

Close with

• Is there anything I should have asked but didn’t?
• What’s one thing you’d like me to do as a result of this conversation?
• Is there anything you’d prefer I didn’t share?

Afterwards

• Write down the 2–3 themes straight after, while they’re fresh.
• Thank them within a day and say what you’ll do next.
• Tell their manager about themes before you act, and never quote anyone without their OK.
• Fix one small thing quickly so people see that speaking up works.
• Book the next round: every 3–6 months is a good rhythm.