Elevate first-line manager coaching in Pharma: Weekly 10-minute micro mission check-ins

First-line manager coaching in Pharma plays a critical role in driving team performance. Yet, coaching conversations often lose momentum between formal sessions.

One way to overcome this is through the use of micro missions – an approach we encourage within our award winning Adaptive Coaching Excellence programme. These short, weekly 10-minute check-ins offer a practical, high-impact solution to keep development on track and elevate coaching effectiveness.

In this article, we explore what micro missions are, how to use them in pharma coaching sessions, and the critical criteria for making them a a success. Also, at the end of the article we provide a downloadable toolkit that will help first line managers practically apply the methodology we share.

What are micro missions in pharma?

Micro missions in pharma are small, focused actions designed to move individuals towards a larger development goal. They are:

• Specific and measurable
• Time-bound (usually achievable within two weeks)
• Actionable and manageable, creating quick wins that build confidence and motivation.

Micro missions in pharma can focus on larger areas such as improving customer engagement, enhancing product knowledge, or strengthening compliance behaviours.

Why weekly 10-minute coaching sessions in pharma matter

These short, structured sessions support effective first-line manager coaching and individual development as they:

• Maintain continuity and accountability between coaching conversations.
• Reinforce learning and behavioural change through regular feedback.
• Address blockers early and celebrate progress to sustain momentum.

Just 10 minutes each week can transform first-line manager coaching from sporadic to consistent, ensuring goals don’t slip through the cracks.

How to structure a 10-minute coaching session in pharma

Informed by a predefined micro-mission, in our award winning Adaptive Coaching Excellence programme, we suggest structuring these weekly check ins with 3 simple questions:

1. What’s going well?
2. What’s blocking you?
3. How can I help?

This keeps the conversation practical, focused, and forward-looking—ideal for busy pharma first-line managers who are balancing multiple priorities.

Tips for success: Micro missions in pharma

• Initially start with an easy micro mission to build confidence.
• Use a ‘Postcard to Success template’ to define the aim, behaviour, and next steps (download our weekly 10-minute micro mission check-ins template to help).
• Celebrate completion and immediately set the next micro mission to maintain momentum.
• Align micro missions with brand strategy, compliance requirements, and customer-centric behaviours.