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: 4.3 (7 votes)

Submitted by nadyanightingale on Mon, 04/04/2022 - 09:52

Permalink

Personally, I would like to write a note, therefore my colleague can have all the information he or she needs written. It wont lead to some kind of misunderstanding.

Hi Timoty,

I'm organising the event tomorrow evening. Could you do me a favour? We're expecting 30 members of out international team to be there. Could you please prepare 30 copies of my presentation? Please would call all the team member who are going to participate?

Thank you for your help. If you have any questions, let me know. I'll be in the office tomorrow morning.

Best,
Nadya

Submitted by sandro1776 on Fri, 28/01/2022 - 13:53

Permalink

Hello everybody, I prefer to give instructions in an e-mail.

Submitted by ANOUAR on Fri, 19/11/2021 - 12:20

Permalink

I would prefer to give instruction directly by words beacause it's easier to be understood !

Submitted by LamVanPhuong on Sat, 30/10/2021 - 10:13

Permalink

if possible i would like prefer to speak with them because it's easier for us to get straight to the point.

Submitted by Suraj paliwal on Fri, 29/10/2021 - 13:15

Permalink

When I give instructions to anyone I usually speak to them and tell them if any problem then speak me. Because I don't have much time at work I always busy to doing things.

Submitted by DW on Mon, 28/06/2021 - 09:37

Permalink
When I have to give someone instructions, I would rather write them a note than talk to them. It is because they can follow easily. If I just told them verbally, some of them might miss some points. You know, if you just tell them once, it is difficult to ensure that everyone gets all the points.
Profile picture for user mirtha

Submitted by mirtha on Tue, 04/05/2021 - 18:25

Permalink
It depends on the situation and the members team. Write an email to someone is an important resource, it is formal, and it is a clear evidence.

Submitted by Ehsan on Sun, 11/04/2021 - 08:55

Permalink
If it is possible, I prefer to speak with them. because I can explain tasks in detail.

Submitted by Camila Abreu on Thu, 01/04/2021 - 14:10

Permalink
Depents on the situation and the target audience. Speaking directly to someone or a group of people is more efficient than giving written instructions and vice versa.