Asking for Further Instructions
Useful Expressions
- Do you have a minute?
- Would you mind sparing several minutes of your time?
- I was wondering if we could have a short meeting.
- There are a few things I would like to ask you.
- I would like to check on a few small details...
- I would like to talk through this matter...
- It won't take up too much of your time.
Dialogue Practice
Read the dialogue aloud with your teacher.
Zach goes to his boss' office to ask him something. | |
 Zach | Sir, I'm sorry to interrupt your work, but do you have a minute? |
 Mark Smith | What is it? |
 Zach | I was wondering if we could have a short meeting today. I have started working on my project, and there are a few things I would like to discuss. |
 Mark Smith | Can it wait? I am quite busy today. |
 Zach | I’m afraid it cannot wait, sir. I have to confirm a few important points with you, before I continue. It won't take up too much of your time, I assure you. |
 Mark Smith | Okay, I can find a few minutes to spare. Meet me in the conference room in half an hour. |
Check your understanding:
1.
Why did Zach go to his boss' office?
2.
What did Zach want to discuss?
3.
How did Zach convince his boss to spare him some time?
Study Manual
Read the following tips.
How to Ask for Further Instructions
Listen carefully. Make sure to listen attentively when your boss is explaining a task or project. Take detailed notes of all the specifics mentioned, so that you can refer to them and avoid asking what was already said.
Ask immediately. When in doubt over an assignment or faced with a problem, don't ever hesitate to ask for help or clarification. It's better to ask early than to have to start over again.
Respect your boss's time. Be mindful of your boss's time and respect their schedule. Always prepare a list of questions or points that you need to discuss.
Be brief and straightforward. Ask simple, short and informative questions; this will help you avoid time wasting.
Discussion
1.
Do you often ask your superior for instructions?
2.
Do you often ask your colleagues for help and direction?
3.
Is it easier for you to ask your boss or your colleagues for help? Why?
4.
Does your manner of speech change when you ask your colleagues, compared to when you ask your boss? If so, in what way?
