Another day, another instance of a leader simply forwarding a message / email without any context or expectations. It’s like playing a game of corporate charades where employees are left guessing what the next move is. This lack of clarity creates unnecessary stress, slows down processes, and breeds frustration. Besides, it’s kind of disrespectful.

Leaders, forwarding an email doesn’t equate to delegation. It’s essential to provide clear instructions, deadlines, and expected outcomes. Your team needs to know what you expect from them, not just what someone else expects from you. Let’s break this habit together and foster a culture of effective communication.

Here are some effective ways to deliver crystal-clear instructions to your employees.

1. Break it Down: Chunk It Up!
   
   

Our brains can only handle so much information at once. Don’t overwhelm your employees with a giant, multi-step task. Instead, break it down into smaller, more manageable chunks.

Outline the Steps: Before delegating, take a moment to map out the specific steps involved in the task.

Focus on Clarity: Use clear and concise language when explaining each step. Avoid technical jargon or acronyms your employees might not understand.

Numbering can Help: Consider numbering each step to create a clear sequence, especially for complex tasks.

2. Embrace the Power of “Why”:
   
   

 Understanding the “why” behind a task can be a huge motivator for employees.  Knowing the purpose not only increases engagement but also helps them anticipate potential roadblocks.

Explain the Big Picture: Take a minute to explain how this task fits into the larger project or company goals.

Highlight the Importance: Let your employees know why this task is important and how it contributes to the overall success.

Context is Key: Provide relevant context to the task at hand. This helps employees make informed decisions if unexpected situations arise.

3. Encourage Two-Way Communication:
   
   

Don’t walk away after outlining the task.  Encourage your employees to ask clarifying questions. This two-way communication ensures everyone is on the same page.

Open the Floor for Questions: Actively solicit questions from your employees. Let them know it’s safe to ask for clarification.

Summarize and Reiterate: After explaining the task, ask your employee to summarize the key points in their own words. This helps identify any gaps in understanding.

Offer Different Channels: Some employees might prefer a quick follow-up email, while others might benefit from a visual task breakdown tool.

By implementing these three strategies, you can ensure your employees receive clear and concise instructions, empowering them to complete tasks effectively and efficiently. Remember, clear communication is a two-way street. By fostering an environment where questions are encouraged, you create a team that thrives on collaboration and delivers top-notch results.