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

Tips

1. You can start a note with just the name of the person you are writing to or Hi ... . You don’t need to use Dear … .

2. Make sure dates are very clear. Include the day, date and time.

3. Explain the reason for the instructions.

4. Write clear and polite instructions. Use phrases like Can / Could / Would you please … ?

5. At the end offer the chance to ask questions and check the instructions.

6. Finish the note with Best, or Thanks, and then your name underneath.

Task 1

Task 2

Task 3

Discussion

Download
Worksheet93.24 KB

Language level

Average: 4.2 (6 votes)
Do you need to improve your English writing skills?
Join thousands of learners from around the world who are improving their English writing skills with our live online classes and personal tutoring courses.

Submitted by TIa vinaka on Sun, 14/03/2021 - 03:32

Permalink
I prefer write a note or e-mail for giving instruction because it's easy for team member and it can be read and checked repeatedly whenever they need.

Submitted by becktoan on Sat, 20/02/2021 - 02:00

Permalink
i prefer to write a note if i think your instruction is not easy. And when writing a note, it is more formal. But when giving instructions by speaking to them directly, it will take us a little time. Best.

Submitted by Bau on Thu, 04/02/2021 - 19:51

Permalink
When you need someone to help some works, It means you knew exactly who can do that job for you. However, they sometime can ask if they think the working is not clearly.

Submitted by Leila77 on Thu, 04/02/2021 - 09:40

Permalink
It depends on the type of the instructions or the situation. Usually, I prefer to write an email, I think it's more professional. But, sometimes, I speak to them when it's an urgent case.

Submitted by In on Wed, 03/02/2021 - 22:36

Permalink
Depends, I prefer first to explain what I need in person. But if I`m away or I can't do that I send a text or email explaining what I need.

Submitted by khoagia on Tue, 22/12/2020 - 09:16

Permalink
To me, I prefer to send an email instead of speaking to all the team members. Because the email will hold the main information, especially I can check the content and revise them to make sure the content will be written correctly before sending it to the team member. To make sure everyone is gotten the email, I can re-send that email once again. Best, Mr. Khoagia

Submitted by Leonardo de Souza on Thu, 19/11/2020 - 11:51

Permalink
So, I prefer send a email rather to call, because the email hold the main informations I need to inform. Besides that I can revise it before send to make sure I wrote all main informations correctly. Generally after send a email if nobody answered me I use to call to confirm the person receive the mensage.

Submitted by Babydoll on Sat, 07/11/2020 - 15:42

Permalink
My prefer method is to talk directly rather than email because when I talk directly. It’s save my time and I can plan sooner rather than waiting for the email response.

Submitted by joselo on Mon, 12/10/2020 - 18:14

Permalink
In my opinion, I think that the best approach for giving instructions to someone is by sharing a note or an email with the main points of the request and then offer the other person to get back to you with questions or inquiries that he/she may have. Sometimes, a brief call to better alignment with your colleague is a good practice too, since he/she may need some clarification or examples about what it should be done. I also think it is worth considering that you should always make your request politely and explaining what is the final goal you are looking for by doing it.