Workplace Communication
Your supervisor gives you instructions, but you didn't fully understand them. What should you do instead of pretending you understand?
Ask for clarification or repeat the instructions back to confirm understanding.
You have an interview at a workplace that uses uniforms. What should you wear rather than the uniform you hope to have?
Professional interview attire.
You see a spill on the floor. What should you NOT do?
Walk past it—either clean it (if trained) or report it immediately.
You disagree with a supervisor’s decision. What should you NOT do?
Raise your voice, argue, or respond disrespectfully.
You won’t finish all tasks by the end of your shift. What should you do instead of rushing and doing them poorly?
Communicate and ask which tasks to prioritize.
A coworker’s tone is short and sounds frustrated. What should you NOT do when responding?
Match their attitude or become defensive.
You’re running late. What should you NOT skip, even when rushed?
Basic hygiene and a clean, neat appearance.
You’re expected to use PPE, but a coworker isn’t wearing theirs. What should you do instead of ignoring it?
Remind them or report it for safety.
You’re having a rough morning. What should you avoid bringing into work?
Personal frustrations or drama.
A patient, client, or student asks a question you don’t know the answer to. What should you do instead of guessing?
Tell them you’ll find out and ask someone informed.
You need to send a message to your supervisor, but it’s not urgent. What should you do instead of texting them casually like a friend?
Send a professional email or message with proper tone and structure.
You want to show your style at work. What kinds of items should you avoid wearing?
Flashy, unsafe, distracting, or policy-breaking items.
A piece of equipment seems “off.” What should you do instead of continuing to use it?
Stop using it and report the issue.
You finish your tasks early. What should you do instead of going on your phone?
Ask what’s next or look for ways to help.
Equipment isn’t working right and you feel pressured to keep going. What should you NOT do?
Force it or bypass safety steps.
Two coworkers begin arguing loudly near customers or students. What should you do—and avoid doing?
Seek help or de-escalate; avoid joining or escalating the conflict.
It’s casual Friday. What mindset should you keep rather than dressing like it’s the weekend?
Dress casually but still clean, professional, and appropriate.
You must lift a heavy object. What should you avoid that could lead to injury?
Lifting with your back, twisting, or lifting alone if it’s unsafe.
A coworker criticizes your work harshly. What should you do rather than shutting down or reacting with attitude?
Stay calm, listen, and take useful feedback.
You notice a routine everyone follows is inefficient or unsafe. What should you do instead of ignoring or complaining about it?
Report your observation with a clear explanation.
You find a mistake on paperwork. What should you do instead of ignoring it?
Report or correct it promptly and professionally.
You’re unsure if clothing meets dress code. What should you do instead of guessing?
Ask/check policy, or choose the more clearly appropriate option.
You enter an unfamiliar work area. What should you do before beginning tasks?
Assess surroundings—hazards, exits, procedures, needed equipment.
You’re running late. What should you do instead of sneaking in and hoping nobody notices?
Notify your supervisor immediately and take responsibility.
You see a coworker struggling with a time-sensitive task. What should you do instead of assuming someone else will help?
Offer help if trained, or notify a supervisor.