I make a point of asking people how are they doing at the start of one on one meetings. 9/10 people say 'good', and we go to other topics. 1/10 has something to say, and that's ok too. It's a small thing, but sometimes people just need someone to listen and be heard ... odd to me that it's at work, but ok, I'm glad to help if it helps.
That said, fishing for 'emotions' seems uncomfortable to me, and maybe asking for trouble with HR down the road.
That said, fishing for 'emotions' seems uncomfortable to me, and maybe asking for trouble with HR down the road.