Maximizing Weekly Catchups

Maximizing Weekly Catchups: The 3 Actions Framework

Managing a hectic schedule, particularly on a Monday packed with meetings, can be overwhelming.

As a line manager, ensuring that your weekly catchups with your team are both efficient and impactful is crucial.

This is where the "3 Actions Framework" comes into play—a simple, structured approach to making the most of your 15-minute check-ins, ensuring every conversation is focused, productive and ads value.

What is the 3 Actions Framework?

The "3 Actions Framework" is a streamlined meeting structure designed to maximize the effectiveness of your weekly catchups in just 15 minutes.

It centers on reviewing three key actions from the previous week and setting three measurable actions for the upcoming week.

The framework aims to maintain focus, ensure progress, and drive accountability while keeping communication lines open.

How the 3 Actions Framework Works

1. Open with a Personal Check-In

Begin each meeting with a brief but essential personal check-in: "How did the week go? How are you?" This sets a positive tone and allows team members to share personal or professional updates. It also provides insight into their well-being and engagement.

2. Review the Previous Week's Actions

Reflect on the three actions established in the last meeting. Discuss successes, challenges, and how obstacles were addressed. If an action needs to be carried over to the current week, that’s fine, but aim to carry over no more than one action to ensure progress has been made.

3. Set Three Actions for the Current Week

Collaboratively set three new actions for the upcoming week. Ensure these actions are:

• Measurable: Define clear criteria for success, tied to specific data or outcomes.

• Achievable: Make sure the actions are realistic within the given timeframe.

Setting too many tasks dilutes focus and diminishes the likelihood of completing any to the desired standard. Three key actions help your team stay concentrated and ensure tasks are completed effectively.

Encourage your team members to come prepared with the necessary data to support their plans and progress. While you should review this data beforehand, allow them to lead the discussion.

4. Close with a Request for Feedback

Conclude the meeting by asking, "Any feedback for me?" This simple question fosters a culture of continuous improvement and demonstrates your willingness to listen and adapt.

Why the 3 Actions Framework Works

• Efficiency: The structured nature of the framework ensures that each meeting remains on track and addresses the most critical aspects of your team’s work.

• Accountability: Focusing on measurable and achievable actions reinforces accountability without micromanagement.

• Proximity to the Business: This framework helps you stay connected to your team’s progress without needing to be an expert in every detail. It also empowers your managers to stay closely aligned with their areas, helping you understand what’s happening, why it’s happening, and how to address emerging issues.

• Progress-Oriented: Limiting carryovers to one action promotes continuous progress and maintains momentum.

• Open Communication: Starting with a personal check-in and ending with a request for feedback encourages a supportive and communicative team culture.

• Preparation for Reviews: Consistently using this framework each week simplifies the preparation for quarterly, monthly, and yearly reviews. It sets clear expectations and continuously monitors progress.

The 3 Actions Framework is a simple yet powerful tool for any line manager looking to optimize weekly catchups.

By concentrating on three key actions, you ensure that your meetings are productive and centered on progress.

Implement this framework and observe how it can enhance your team’s performance and refine your management approach.