Set Expectations That Stick: How to Avoid Rework

Set expectations that stick: how to avoid rework with clear expectations at work and stronger delegation skills. Learn a simple, research-backed script for setting expectations with employees to reduce rework and mistakes and prevent scope creep. Walk away with practical, repeatable communication techniques managers can use today to delegate tasks clearly and save hours of frustration.

What You'll Learn:

• Use a simple three-part script (Outcome, Standards, Resources) to set expectations that stick before you delegate any task.
• Design two alignment checkpoints—an early confirmation and a mid-course review—to catch misunderstandings before they turn into rework.
• Turn fuzzy requests into clear expectations at work by specifying what “good” looks like, when it’s due, and how progress will be shared.
• Apply project management communication tactics to prevent scope creep, including boundaries on what’s in and out of scope for the task.
• Use written summaries after verbal conversations so employees have a concrete reference that reduces mistakes and repeated clarifications.
• Identify one real project where delegation is causing friction and rewrite the assignment using the Outcome–Standards–Resources framework.
• Practice asking two or three targeted follow-up questions to confirm understanding instead of asking, “Does that make sense?”
• Commit to one small action this week to apply these tools—such as rewriting a task brief or adding a check-in—to immediately reduce rework.