Introduction: What You’ll Learn
This simulation helps you guide a growth-focused 1:1 with curiosity and structure. It’s about opening the door to longer-term thinking without putting pressure on having all the answers.
You’ll practice:
- Starting a career-focused conversation without it feeling forced
- Exploring interests and skills they want to grow
- Helping them frame goals and potential next steps
- Offering support and structure without oversteering
Step-by-Step Simulation
Scene 1: Opening the Conversation
You (Manager):
"I was thinking — we haven’t had a chance to talk much about your long-term goals lately. Would you be open to doing a bit of career reflection today?"
Teammate (Alex):
"Yeah, for sure. I’ve been meaning to bring it up, actually."
You:
"Awesome. No pressure to have a five-year plan or anything — just curious what kinds of work light you up, or what you might want more of down the road."
Scene 2: Exploring Direction and Growth
Alex:
"I’ve really been enjoying the architecture work lately — getting to step back and think bigger-picture."
You:
"That’s great to hear. I’ve noticed you’ve been really strong there. Anything else you’re curious to try or build more muscle in?"
Alex:
"Maybe more people mentoring? I’ve been helping out on Slack a lot, and I kind of like it."
You:
"Nice — that’s definitely something we can grow. We could look at pairing you up with a newer teammate or giving you space to lead a code walkthrough."
Scene 3: Framing Next Steps
You:
"Would it be helpful if we tried putting some of this into a loose plan? Nothing heavy — just some intentions for the next quarter or two."
Alex:
"Yeah, that actually sounds good. I like having some structure around it."
You:
"Cool. I’ll write up a few notes and we can check in again soon. Also, if there’s anything you want exposure to — leadership moments, new tech, whatever — just flag it. I’ll look out for chances."
Alex:
"Will do — thanks for bringing this up."
You:
"Of course. These convos don’t have to be huge — but I always want to help you grow in a direction that feels right."
Mini Roleplay Challenges
Challenge 1:
Alex says they have no idea what they want long-term.
- Best Response:
“Totally fair — we can explore what energizes you lately and go from there.”
Challenge 2:
They say they’re bored or under-challenged.
- Best Response:
“That’s helpful to know — let’s look for something that stretches you in a good way.”
Challenge 3:
They fixate on a promotion path but haven’t built the experience yet.
- Best Response:
“Love the ambition. Let’s talk through what that next level looks like and where you’re already close.”
Optional Curveball Mode
- Alex says they’re thinking about leaving the team.
- They mention an interest that doesn’t align with team needs.
- They’re only interested in technical depth and resist soft skill growth.
Reflection Checklist
Openness & Curiosity
- Did I start the conversation with curiosity and care?
- Did I avoid pushing an agenda or rushing to fill the silence?
Direction & Possibility
- Did I help them identify areas of interest or strength?
- Did we talk about what energizes or challenges them?
Support & Follow-Through
- Did I offer clear support or small next steps?
- Did I commit to following up or watching for opportunities?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Asking vague questions like “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
- Oversteering or prescribing a path
- Letting it be a one-off talk with no follow-up
- Focusing only on promotions, not skill-building