Team check-in questions: better than "how are you?"
In short
A good team check-in question is short, work-safe and easy to answer in one sentence, for example about a small win this week or what would make today a good day. It helps people arrive, shows how the team is doing and builds trust over time, without anyone having to share something private.
The questions
Instead of
How are you?One word from the feelings wheel for how you start this meeting?
Instead of
Any updates?What went better this week than you expected?
Instead of
How was work?What took more energy today than it was worth?
Instead of
Do you need anything?What is one thing I could stop doing that would help you?
Instead of
Is the project on track?What worries you about this project that nobody has said out loud yet?
Instead of
Are you happy here?When did you last feel proud of your work here? What made it possible?
Instead of
Where do you see yourself?What would you like to be known for in this team a year from now?
Instead of
How's the team?Who on this team deserves a thank-you they haven't heard yet?
How to use them
- One question, one sentence each, two minutes in total.
- The leader answers first and keeps it honest.
- Passing is always allowed. Nobody has to share anything private.
When the answer is a feeling
Sometimes a good question gets a feeling as an answer, and no word for it. The feelings wheel helps find one, and the listening compass helps you stay with it.
Questions about the questions
What is a good check-in question for a meeting?
Something quick and positive or reflective, like a small win this week or one thing on your mind. Avoid very personal questions in a team setting.
How often should a team do check-ins?
Many teams do one at the start of a weekly meeting or every 1:1. Short and regular works better than long and rare.