Updates vs 1:1s

Admins often ask us what the differences are between the 1:1 and Updates tools. 1:1s facilitate the conversation between employee and their manager in an in-person meeting. At the same time, Updates are a significant tactical update for managers or a mini-self-reflection employees can complete on a more frequent cadence than a full review.

What is the Tool?
The Updates tool allows managers to set-up a customized template sent to employees at a cadence of their choosing (weekly, biweekly, monthly, or quarterly). Employees checking in with their manager weekly often use the Updates tool as a monthly status report to inform the manager what they are working on and where they could use the help. 

Why Use This Tool?
It's an excellent tool for employees/managers that struggle to find time in-person. We've also seen success for teams that have remote employees, traveling employees, or new hires. Employees who are checking in with their manager monthly are generally using the Updates tool as a mini self-review. It's a way to look back at your performance over the past month and is generally more developmentally based. 

For companies that do not have frequent reviews, there can be months when an employee does not receive formalized feedback, and the Updates tool is a great way to gather more of that feedback. Regardless of the cadence, Lattice will automate the process so it runs regularly, and managers will always be allowed to comment back on updates, so they are closing the loop. 

What can the Admin do with Updates?
As an admin, you'll be able to view the content of the update and who is using the tool. Additionally, you can provide transparency to your senior leaders by turning on a feature that allows managers of managers to see their indirect reports' updates. You also can turn on updates for all employees and select the default cadence & questions to drive accountability.

1:1s Tool

What is the Tool?
The 1:1's tool allows both managers and employees to collaborate on a shared agenda for their in-person meetings. The first step to having a productive meeting is creating an agenda and ensuring internal stakeholders are aligned. With the 1:1's tool, managers and direct reports can connect either their Google or Outlook calendars to Lattice so that we have insight into when your next 1:1 is (even if the time changes).

Why Use This Tool?
Throughout the week, both the manager and employee can go into the tool and add agenda items to discuss. Often 1:1's can feel manager dominated, and this gives employees equal ownership over their in-person meeting. Once the agenda is set, Lattice will send both employees an email 2 hours before the meeting with the agenda so they can come better prepared for the meeting. Once the meeting starts, both employees will add notes, so there is a record detailing what was discussed and any takeaways.