As an Engineering Manager, allocating time for maximum impact in 1:1 meetings is crucial. Effective 1:1s can amplify the work of team members by an order of magnitude over a sustained period. To achieve this, it's essential to know why you're meeting, clarify ownership, scope the meeting, be prepared, follow up, create and maintain a safe environment, schedule effectively but be flexible, adapt your style, and learn from the experience. Key challenges include concurrent note-taking, maintaining safety, and optimizing 1:1 scheduling formats. While there's no single effective shape or system for 1:1s, understanding what works best for you and making minor tweaks can yield significant results, as this time is high-leverage for maximum impact.