Giving COMMANDS –

        Orders should be clear, concise, and complete.

        Orders can be in the form of commands, demands, requests, or suggestions.

        Today orders are normally given to team leaders by requesting and suggesting action and the results desired.   

A Handful of Tips on the best way to give orders to get things done

* Be clear about what has to be done

        Instructions must be clear, simple, and unambiguous. When you write them, they must be concise and complete.

        Use specific and familiar words and active verbs.

        If you have overseas workers give them instructions in their own language,  as well as in English.

        Set prescribed standards.

        Respect the employees’ dignity – don’t talk down to them.

* Give reasons

         Assign a priority to the task being set.

        The person receiving the instructions must know why it should be done, how it should be done and when it should be completed.

        Set deadlines if possible.

*  State the results you expect

        With complex instructions write them out first. This will help you clarify your own ideas and get things into a logical order.

        After giving verbal instructions follow up with a copy of written instructions.

*  Question to ensure the person understands

        Encourage questions to make sure the instructions are clear and fully understood.

* Periodically check that your orders are being carried out to the standards required

        Make the person, or team accountable for the task set and ask for regular reports to ensure you are getting the desired results.

-Geoffrey Moss(mossassociates.co.NZ)

“A person’s respect for an order largely depends on understanding, and their ability to carry out the work.”

Source: “Secrets for Success. This book could change your life.” Published by Moss Associates Ltd. New Zealand. Also available from Cengage Learning, Asia, and as an e-book from Amazon.com.