Why Telling People What To Do Often Doesn't Work

Does this here sound familiar? Your direct report is making little progress on a project. You know how to do it, so you try to help by telling her what she needs to do next. You think that we're all set now and that the project will be completed at lightning speed. ... Except that it won't. Next time you check-in, the project is still not coming along and you're baffled. Even though you've all had hundreds, if not thousands, of experiences when telling others what to do didn't work, you still hold on to this practice. We all do! After all, we just want to help! Yes, we mean well when we give advice. We like the idea that someone solved an issue because of our advice. And it feels good to share our wisdom and knowledge. But, unfortunately, giving advice as a first reaction rarely leads to the desired outcome. This is because giving advice has flaws and drawbacks that are often overlooked. So, if you've been frustrated with others who didn't act on your advice then this episode is for you.  – YOU’LL FINISH THE EPISODE KNOWING – When advice is actually helpful and when it's not The 2 flaws inherent in giving advice What to do to overcome the flaws and get way better results And what to pay attention to if advice is indeed the only option I bet that you'll gain a new perspective on advice by listening to this episode and that, if you dare to experiment with the ideas, will notice an immediate improvement in your communication with others. – RESOURCES MENTIONED – Email us at [email protected] to get a copy of the coaching skills self-assessment.* Disclaimer: Shownotes may contain affiliate links. That means that I am awarded a small commission for purchases made through them, at no added cost to you.