What should not be a focus of the first counseling session with a new subordinate?

In the context of a first counseling session with a new subordinate, the primary objectives typically center around establishing a strong foundation for the working relationship. One of the key focuses should be on creating a welcoming environment to facilitate open communication and understanding. This includes establishing expectations and setting future goals, both of which help clarify roles and align objectives early on.

Reviewing past performance, while important in a broader context, is not the priority during the initial engagement. The first session is not the appropriate time to delve into previous evaluations, achievements, or shortcomings, as this could create unnecessary pressure or defensiveness in the subordinate. Instead, the focus should be on fostering a rapport and ensuring that the subordinate feels supported and engaged as they transition into the new role. Building a solid working relationship and understanding mutual expectations are far more beneficial at this stage than analyzing past performance records.