People are complex. If you’ve ever taken a personality assessment test, you know well we all have different propensities, values, drivers, and motivations. As managers how can you get the most out people in the workplace? What are ways you create cohesiveness and trust? How can you bring dynamic solutions to problem situations?

One highly controllable component is to have individual meetings. They allow you to connect with your employees and build a stronger team, one person at a time. If you justify not holding individual meetings because of your hectic travel schedule or feel constrained because of a large staff, than you’re not the leader you think you are. Test your mettle against the steps below to see if there’s a nugget or two of wisdom that might help.

Step One: Designate time on your calendar. As much as I’d like to say have them at the same time every week or two, that is not always realistic. However, the designation of time and commitment to schedules can instantly build morale and loyalty. Designating time to your staff should be as important as a client presentation. By booking it on your calendar regularly, you can learn, teach and mutually benefit in a non-distracted atmosphere.

Step Two: Be mutually prepared. To save time and increase productive outcomes, be certain both parties have submitted their intended discussion points and outcomes prior to individual meetings via an email or quick discussion. This is more than just an agenda—it involves objectives, updates, challenges, solutions, and walk-away duties. Having both parties submit this prior to the meeting keeps everyone in the game and allows both leader and team member to be accountable.

As the meeting begins, be sure both parties have the agreed-upon checklist to follow so your schedule is tight and results focused. It also makes sense to clarify what was exchanged at the beginning of each meeting, so you are both aligned with a roadmap. This framing can allow for quick additions or adjustments.

Step Three: Make personal connections every few meetings. All too often, the only issues discussed in group and individual meetings are processes, procedures and quotas. Understandably, it is, in fact, a business meeting. But you’re meeting with people who are driven by personal goals, values and passions. What if occasionally you asked questions of a more personal nature such as “What are you motivated by?” “What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing?” “What can I do to help you bring your performance results to the hest level?” “What are your aspirations or goals over the next couple of years?”.

In group meetings, these questions can be too personal. One on one time gives a team member a chance to open up, be heard and give you important input.

Step Four: Document and follow up. If a team member asks for support on issues and you don’t follow through and get back to them on issues discussed, it can erode trust. It is important to review and clarify what was discussed at the end of each meeting to provide for an accurate understanding. In addition, create joint accountabilities for follow up so each party understands what is expected, and when.

Bonus Step: Get feedback on your leadership. Individual meetings provide you an opportunity to create a safe atmosphere, one team member at a time, and get input on your effectiveness as a manager. Obtaining truthful and accurate input may be all in your approach. For example a good approach might be to speak in a friendly tone and simply say, "John, I was hoping you could provide me with some feedback on how I can be a more effective team leader” or “John, I’d really appreciate your suggestions.”

Individual meetings provide excellent opportunities for team building. Even if they have to occasionally be done by phone, it is important to make time for team members one on one. You will see positive outcomes in the areas of greater rapport, sincere communication, loyalty, and inspired performance.

Joe Takash, founder of Victory Consulting, is a business consultant and keynote speaker who specializes in leadership, motivation and selling skills. For more information visit www.joetakash.com or call 888-918- 3999.