Clarify workplace instructions

The first step in understanding workplace instructions is to use an active listening approach towards the speaker giving you instructional information.

Once you have received the instructions it is important to clarify your understanding before you complete any potentially incorrect follow up actions.

Clarification requires the listener to never assume that they understand the speaker until the speaker has confirmed that the listener’s understanding is correct.

The information below provides an example of clarifying a workplace conflict. Clarifying conflict ensures you have a full understanding of what has been happening from the perspectives of both parties involved. In many conflict disputes, people’s perceptions drive their actions and thoughts. Remember that perceptions may be different for each person, and that neither party may be seeing the reality of the situation.

The following process does not just relate to conflicts, and can be applied to any information in the workplace that requires clarification.