A first day on a new team
Read how a new colleague helps her team by asking one practical question.
When Priya started work at a small design company, she expected to spend her first morning learning a new computer programme. Instead, her manager, Daniel, asked her to join a meeting about a shop window. The team needed to choose between two designs before lunch.
Priya listened while her colleagues discussed colours and prices. She understood most of the conversation, but she was not sure who would send the final drawing to the shop owner. Everyone seemed busy, and she worried that her question would slow them down.
Eventually, she asked, “Who is responsible for sending the drawing, and when does the owner need it?” The room went quiet for a moment. Then Daniel checked his notes. No one had been given that task, although everyone had assumed somebody else was doing it.
They agreed that Daniel would send the drawing at eleven. Afterwards, he thanked Priya for asking. She still needed to learn the computer programme, but she had already helped the team. On the way home, she felt less worried about speaking at the next meeting.
Words to take with you
- colleague
- Someone you work with.My colleague helped me find the meeting room.
- responsible
- Having a duty to do or look after something.Who is responsible for locking the door?
- assume
- To believe something without checking it.I assumed the shop was open.
- eventually
- After some time.Eventually, we found the right building.
- final
- Last, with no further version planned.Please send the final drawing today.
Check your understanding
Choose an answer, then check each question.
Use your English
Think of a meeting or group task. What useful clarifying question could you ask?
Say your answer aloud or write two or three sentences.