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Also known as: skip level, skip-level 1:1, skip meeting

Skip-Level Meeting

ConceptualOperations

Definition

Skip-Level Meeting: A skip-level meeting is a conversation between an employee and their manager's manager, 'skipping' a level in the hierarchy. Skip-levels help senior leaders stay connected to frontline reality, surface issues that might not escalate through normal channels, and provide career development exposure for rising employees.

Example Usage

“I do quarterly skip-levels with everyone two levels down. It keeps me grounded in reality and helps identify future leaders early.”

Common Misconceptions

Skip-levels undermine managers. Done right, they support managers by surfacing issues and building trust.
Only for complaints. Skip-levels should include career development, strategic input, and recognition.
Skip-levels are only for large companies. Even 20-person startups benefit from founders connecting with ICs directly.

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