In many jobs, we need to work with other people. Sometimes, we do not know how to do something. Sometimes, we are too busy and need support. In these moments, requesting help from coworkers is important. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It shows that you care about doing the job well.
This article will help you learn how to ask for help in a polite and clear way. You will see example sentences, simple phrases, and tips for using email and text messages.
Why Asking for Help Is Okay
Everyone needs help sometimes. Even people who have worked for many years need support. It is better to ask than to make a mistake or waste time.
Here are some reasons people ask for help at work:
- They are new to the job.
- They do not understand part of a task.
- They have too many tasks at once.
- They need another person’s skills or knowledge.
Example:
“I’ve just started working here, and I’m still learning. Can you show me how to use this software?”
That is a simple and respectful way of requesting help from coworkers.
Related: Requesting Help from Friends In Natural English
How to Ask Politely
Being polite is very important. You want your coworker to feel respected. Use soft, friendly words. Try using “please”, “would you mind”, and “could you”.
Here is a table with useful phrases you can use when asking for help:
| Situation | How to Ask Politely |
|---|---|
| General request | “Could you help me with this?” |
| Asking without pressure | “Would you mind showing me how this works?” |
| Checking if they’re available | “Do you have a moment?” |
| Asking for guidance | “Can you walk me through this step by step?” |
| When unsure how to do something | “I’m not sure how to begin. Can you help?” |
Example:
“Hi Mia, could you help me understand this part of the schedule? I’m not sure when the deadline is.”
This sentence is clear, polite, and easy to answer.
Giving a Reason Helps
It can help to give a short reason why you need help. This shows that you have tried first, and you are not just being lazy.
Here are examples:
- “I’ve tried to fix this error, but I can’t figure it out.”
- “I looked in the manual, but I still don’t understand.”
- “I’m behind because of a meeting that went long.”
Example:
“I’ve checked the file twice, but I still don’t understand why the totals are wrong. Can you take a look?”
Giving a reason makes it easier for your coworker to understand the situation. It can also make them more willing to help.
Good Times to Ask for Help
Don’t interrupt your coworker when they are very busy. Try to find a good time.
Here are some polite ways to check:
- “Is now a good time to talk?”
- “Do you have a minute?”
- “When would be a good time to go over this with you?”
Example:
“Hi Jason, do you have a minute? I’m working on the monthly report and have a question about the chart.”
Timing and tone are key when requesting help from coworkers. You want to make it easy for them to say yes.
What to Say When You Text or Email
In today’s workplaces, people often use emails or messaging apps like These phrases show that you are being kind and respectful., Teams, or WhatsApp to talk. These are great tools, but you still need to sound professional.
Writing a Professional Email
When writing an email to a coworker, use a clear subject line. Start with a greeting, explain your request briefly, and say thank you.
Example email:
Subject: Help with Updating Client Records
Hi Laura,
I hope you’re doing well. I’m working on updating the client records for this week. I’m not sure which system we should use for the new entries. Could you help me with this when you have a moment?
Thanks so much,
Amir
This email is short, polite, and respectful. It includes a reason, a question, and a thank you.
Writing a Professional Text Message
Text messages can be more casual, but still need to be clear and respectful.
Example text:
Hi David, I’m working on the Johnson file. Quick question—do we send the invoice today or wait until next week?
Another example:
Hey! When you have a moment, can you help me upload the new documents to the shared folder? Thanks!
Avoid using too many emojis or very casual language. Keep it short and professional.
What to Say If Someone Can’t Help
Sometimes, your coworker might be too busy. That’s okay. Be polite and thank them anyway.
Example:
“No problem at all—thanks for letting me know.”
You can also ask if someone else might be able to help:
“Thanks anyway! Is there someone else you’d recommend I ask?”
Being kind when someone says no shows you are a good teammate.
How to Offer Help in Return
Helping goes both ways. If you ask for help, try to offer help back later. This builds trust and respect at work.
Example:
“Thanks for your help with that report. Let me know if you ever need anything from me!”
This is a simple way to be kind and build strong work relationships.
Practice these phrases for requesting help from coworkers
Let’s review some helpful phrases you can use when requesting help from coworkers:
- “Could you help me with this?”
- “Do you have a moment to talk about something?”
- “I’ve tried it a few times, but I’m stuck. Can you help?”
- “What’s the best way to handle this?”
- “Thanks so much for your time—I really appreciate it.”
- “Please let me know if I can return the favor.”
Try practicing these out loud. The more you use them, the easier they will become.
Coworker vs colleague: Is there a difference?
The words coworker and colleague are very similar. In most cases, they mean the same thing: someone you work with. But there is a small difference in how we use them. Coworker is more common in American English. It usually refers to anyone who works at the same company as you. This includes people in different departments. For example: “My coworker in accounting helped me with the budget.” Colleague can sound a bit more formal. It is often used in British English. Sometimes, it suggests a person in the same field or profession. For example: “I met with several colleagues from other law firms.” In everyday conversation, you can usually use either word. Just remember—coworker is more casual and common in the U.S., while colleague may sound more professional or formal.
Requesting help from coworkers: Final thoughts
Requesting help from coworkers is part of good communication at work. It shows that you want to learn and do things right. You do not need to feel shy or nervous. Everyone needs help sometimes.
Use polite words, give a short reason, and show respect for the other person’s time. If you write an email or message, keep it clear and professional.
By following these simple tips, you can become more confident and successful in the workplace.