Assigning Tasks

Main Lesson
Discussion

• Who are they?
• What are their main responsibilities?
• What are your everyday responsibilities?
• Are there tasks you enjoy doing at work?
• Are there any tasks you dislike doing at work?

1. Assigning Tasks vs. Making Requests

Assigning tasks and making requests may sound similar, but they have different purposes.

Assigning a task means giving someone a responsibility that is part of their job. It is usually more direct and shows authority.
Example: “You’ll be responsible for preparing the report this week.”

On the other hand, making a request is when you ask someone to do something in a polite way. A request is softer and focuses more on politeness than authority.
Example: “Could you help me check this report?”

2. Ways of Assigning Tasks

Direct Assignment

• You’ll be responsible for preparing the monthly report.
• I’m assigning you to follow up with the supplier.
• I need you to call the supplier and confirm delivery.

Soft Assignment

• Would you mind checking the inventory list?
• It would be great if you could call the supplier to confirm delivery.
• Could you look into the client’s request from yesterday?

3. Practice Assigning Tasks

They are on your team, so take the time to learn their strengths.

Alice

Great at data analysis,
detail-oriented, quick learner,
hard working

Ben

Strong communicator, experienced in client relations, good at presentations

Carl

Creative thinker, excellent at social media and marketing, good at organizing events

Alice

Great at data analysis,
detail-oriented, quick learner,
hard working

Ben

Strong communicator, experienced in client relations, good at presentations

Carl

Creative thinker, excellent at social media and marketing, good at organizing events


Scenario 1 (Office Project)
Your team needs to prepare a marketing report and presentation for the new product launch next week. Assign tasks to your team members.

Tasks

1. Create slides for social media marketing
2. Analyze sales data for the report
3. Summarize client questions for the presentation


Scenario 2 (Client Issue)
The client just sent urgent feedback. Some parts need immediate corrections. Assign tasks to resolve the issues as quickly as possible.

Tasks

1. Contact client and explain changes
2. Review client report and fix errors
3. Update presentation slides according to feedback


Scenario 3 (Office Event)
Your company is organizing an internal event next week. Assign tasks for decorations, invitations, and catering.

Tasks

1. Arrange decorations for the event
2. Send invitations to employees
3. Prepare event schedule and check logistics

4. Discussion Questions

• Do you believe the tasks assigned to you align with your strengths?
• Have you ever received a task that was difficult or unfair?
• Who would you want to work with most in a team and why?