Great Leadership Takes Time

Do You Really Make Time for What Matters Most? We’ve all heard it before: “Our people are our most important asset.” It’s a mantra that rolls off the tongue in every team meeting, town hall, and corporate email. But let’s be honest—do your actions match your words?

For most leaders, the answer is no. Not because they don’t care, but because they’re stretched thin. Meetings, reports, crises, and countless priorities compete for their attention every day. It’s easy to let regular one-on-one time with employees fall by the wayside or, worse, treat it as a box to check rather than a meaningful opportunity.

But here’s the harsh truth: great leadership doesn’t happen by accident. It takes time. And if you’re not making time for your people, you’re not leading them—you’re managing tasks.

The Problem With Being “There But Not There”

Even when leaders do carve out time for one-on-one meetings, they often aren’t fully present. They show up distracted, unprepared, and rushed. Employees can tell, and the message they receive is clear: You’re not a priority.

Here’s what this often looks like:

• Checking your phone or email during the conversation.
• Focusing more on delivering feedback than listening to concerns.
• Skimming over important topics because you’re in a hurry.

The result? Employees feel undervalued, disengaged, and increasingly cynical about the company’s commitment to their growth.

Why Time Matters More Than Ever

In today’s workplace, employees are juggling a lot—financial pressures, burnout, and uncertainty about the future. What they need from you isn’t just guidance; it’s connection. They need to know their leader cares enough to invest time in them, to really see them, and to help them grow.

When you make time for your people, you:

1. Build Trust: Consistency in your time and attention shows employees they can rely on you.
2. Foster Growth: Regular coaching and mentoring unlock potential and strengthen your team.
3. Boost Engagement: Employees who feel valued are more motivated and productive.

Practical Tips for Making (and Maximizing) the Time

1. Schedule It Like It Matters—Because It Does

Treat one-on-one meetings as sacred time. Schedule them regularly, and don’t cancel unless it’s truly unavoidable. Your actions set the tone—if you prioritize these meetings, your team will too.

2. Prepare Thoughtfully

Take a few minutes to review notes, performance metrics, or recent updates before the meeting. Show your employee you’ve thought about what they need from you, not just what you need from them.

3. Be Fully Present

Put away your phone, close your laptop, and clear your mind. Your undivided attention speaks volumes. Use active listening techniques—paraphrase, ask clarifying questions, and show empathy.

4. Focus on Them, Not Just the Work

One-on-ones aren’t just about updates and tasks. They’re about your employees’ goals, challenges, and development. Ask questions like:

• “What’s something you’re proud of this week?”
• “What’s been challenging for you lately?”
• “How can I support your career growth?”

5. Coach, Don’t Just Direct

Resist the urge to simply give instructions. Use these meetings to coach and mentor. Help employees think through problems, brainstorm solutions, and build confidence in their abilities.

6. Follow Up

Take notes during the meeting and follow up on action items or concerns. Showing that you remembered and acted on what they shared reinforces their value to you.

Reclaiming Time for Your People

We get it—leaders are busy. But here’s the thing: if you’re too busy to give your people the time and attention they need, you’re too busy to lead effectively.

Here are some strategies to reclaim time for what matters most:

• Delegate Strategically: Free up bandwidth by empowering others to handle tasks that don’t require your direct involvement.
• Block Your Calendar: Reserve time for one-on-ones and leadership priorities, and protect it fiercely.
• Say No More Often: Not every meeting or project needs your presence. Prioritize your team.

The Payoff of Investing in Time

When you invest time in your people, you’re not just building better employees—you’re building trust, loyalty, and a culture of engagement. Employees who feel seen and supported are more likely to go the extra mile, stay with your organization longer, and contribute meaningfully to its success.

Great leadership takes time. It’s not always convenient, but it’s always worth it. The question is: will you make the time? Your people—and your future—are counting on it.