In EOS®, a Quarterly Conversation™ is a structured but informal one-on-one between a manager and each direct report, held every 90 days. The two talk through what's working, what isn't, and where the person is headed, then check three basic expectations that EOS calls the 5-5-5™. It runs alongside the annual review rather than replacing it.
What is the 5-5-5?
- Five core values. Does the person live the company's core values? EOS rates this on the People Analyzer®.
- Five roles. Can they do the five roles of their seat on the Accountability Chart®?
- Five Rocks. Are they setting and hitting their quarterly Rocks?
- The fives are approximate. EOS says so itself. A company with four core values, or a seat with six roles, has the same conversation.
How do you run one?
The format EOS's implementers describe is simple. Keep it informal, over coffee or lunch and ideally away from the desk, and have both people prepare. The direct report goes first on what's working and what isn't, then the manager. Each issue lands one of three ways: the person solves it with coaching, it's acknowledged as something that can't be solved, or the manager takes it on. The report then gives the manager feedback, and the conversation ends with next steps and a date for the next one.
Related
EOS®, Quarterly Conversation™, The 5-5-5™, The People Analyzer®, The Accountability Chart®, GWC™, Same Page Meeting® and Rocks are trademarks or concepts of EOS Worldwide, LLC. Vetta is an independent product and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by EOS Worldwide. This page exists to explain the terminology accurately for teams who use it.