Beginning working together on a project is not just when everyone starts working on tasks. Sometimes a group meeting is not sufficient. The Smart Project website seeks solutions in one-on-one meetings between individual team members.
Projects sometimes involve complicated goals, specialized resources or risks that need more clarification. For this purpose, on-on-one meetings are more preferable than group discussions. In addition, this method of project management helps individuals to recognize their role in the group. Each member of the team understands his role in the project and becomes a source of trust and understanding for his colleagues, with whom he is cooperating for the first time.
Individual meetings with team members should take place throughout the whole project. If it is a short-term activity, then there should be daily or weekly meetings with the team leader. However, if it is a longer-term project involving more members, the meetings may also take place once a month or as needed.
What should you discuss individually with each team member?
1. Explain why he was chosen for this team. Does he have any special skills?
2. Clarify what the main priorities and tasks of the project are and what the implications are for him.
3. Outline the project management methodology. Describe the administrative procedures, methods and tools that will be used.
4. Tell the team member your expectations of his participation.
5. Discuss the potential challenges and problems of the project (even on a personal level).
6. Design the way you want to have problems and partial decisions addressed.
7. Plan further individual appointments and tasks to be fulfilled in the meantime.
Finally, it is important to note that these individual meetings are not always strictly necessary. If you have a very close working team, which has few members, it is possible to sacrifice one-on-ones. However, all concerns and potential problems must be subject to regular group meetings.
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