Instructions for a colleague

Instructions for a colleague

Learn how to write instructions for a colleague.

Do the preparation task first. Then read the text and tips and do the exercises.

Preparation

Reading text

Checklist for opening the shop

Start at 8 a.m.

  1. Firstly, when you enter the shop, remember to turn off the alarm.  
    • Do this by holding your key card to the alarm panel. It's behind the door near the light switches.
  2. Open all the blinds and turn on the lights.
  3. Please don't forget to start the coffee machine so your colleagues have fresh coffee for when they arrive.
  4. At 8.15 a.m., watch out for the fresh deliveries at the back door. They usually arrive at that time.
    • Pay attention to the order list and what is actually delivered.
    • Remember not to sign for anything that isn't in the delivery as there are often items missing.
  5. Check the answer phone and shop email account for any new messages.
  6. Leave the heating and the air conditioning alone. They are on an automatic timer. So please, don't go near the control panels.

Finally, you need to finish everything above before 8.45 a.m. and open the shop at 9 a.m. There is a red logbook under the counter. Make sure you sign it for each day when you have completed all points on this checklist. Make a note of any issues.

If you have any problems, call your supervisor or the 24-hour support line number below.

Tips

  1. Use imperative verb forms to give orders and instructions:
    Turn off the alarm / make sure to sign the logbook.
  2. Tell people exactly what you want them to do and when:
    You need to do everything above before 8.45 a.m.
  3. Tell people where things are – they might not know:
    It's near/behind/over/under the …
  4. Give emergency contact information.
  5. Have a sheet for people to sign after they have completed the process, e.g. cleaning a machine or balancing the cash register.

Discussion

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Worksheet97.8 KB

Language level

Average: 5 (2 votes)
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Submitted by Maksmatt on Sat, 16/11/2019 - 17:36

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I'm a teacher in school. Sometimes when I'm sick or on a course I get a supply teacher whom I get instructions about the subjects and the students.

Submitted by cittàutopica on Sun, 25/08/2019 - 16:56

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Anyone give me instructions, because I work in professional environment, which require autonomous decision-making.

Submitted by Loc Dang on Sat, 17/08/2019 - 11:27

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I often give instructions to a colleague for asking a help! A special colleague! She is cleaner in the company, but what she's focusing on seems to be other tasks, almost for giving little support to other colleagues. It might sound strange, but just with some words explained, she can grasp what you mean and complete the task smoothly!

Submitted by Loc Dang on Fri, 16/08/2019 - 16:29

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After the close of business, stay in the office until the last worker leaves. In the meantime, empty the bins, close windows. Make sure all pieces of equipment in the tea room are in shutdown status. Always remember to turn off the lights and air conditioner in each room. Watch out if the tap is running. Before leaving, set up the alarm near the entrance. Lock well the door.
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Submitted by mtalebi on Tue, 04/06/2019 - 04:40

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I need to give instructions to students for their homeworks, projects, and exams.

Submitted by saydin on Sun, 26/05/2019 - 20:49

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I need to give instructions to my colleague because he is very forgetful man.

Submitted by ali aiad ali shanan on Fri, 15/03/2019 - 15:01

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I need to give instructions to all employees