Are you checking-in or checking-on?

 
Are you checking-in or checking-on.jpg

Checking-on is process-focused:

  • How’s the project coming along?

  • Will we hit the deadline?

  • Has the order been placed?

  • Are the chores complete?

  • Did you finish your homework?

Checking-in is people-focused:

  • How are you doing today?

  • How are you feeling?

  • Tell me how things are going.

  • What do you need right now?

  • What if I just listen?

Both are important. Both serve a purpose.

However, if you’re not intentional, checking-on more than checking-in can quickly disintegrate into micromanagement.

Make sure you give balanced attention to both the process people use and the people using the process.