Every manager and employee engages in some form of career discussion.  There are many ways this takes place and they vary by company.  We posed this question to Kevin S, Principle Program Manager, and he believes in the 1:1 method. 

What have you seen work/not work and suggestions? 

1:1s both scheduled and opportunistic. Also small group meetings. I try not to micromanage but I am clear that in order for me to best support them I need to have clarity on what is going on, what challenges exist, what is blocking etc. I also try to keep broad and work a lot with my peers and others that may have dependencies on individuals on my team. Get feedback and make adjustments as appropriate.