WorkIntermediate
Asking a coworker for help in English
How to ask a busy coworker for help without sounding awkward.
The textbook way: people will understand, but it isn't what they say
Hi Ben! Please help me check this report.
What people actually say ↓Full script
Lin
Hey Ben, do you have a sec?
Them
Sure, what's up?
Lin
Could you take a look at this report for me?
Them
Of course. When do you need it by?
Lin
No rush. Tomorrow morning is fine.
Them
Got it. I'll get back to you by then.
Lin
Thanks, Ben. I owe you one!
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
Ask first before the request
✗ Please help me check this report.
✓ Do you have a sec?Polite: check if they're free
sec = second; also: Got a minute?
Hand it to them
✓ Could you take a look at this?Polite way to ask for a quick check
take a look = check it quickly
Your coworker agrees
✓ I'll get back to you.I’ll reply later
You can say first: No rush.
Warmer than Thank you
✓ I owe you one!Friendly: I appreciate it
They may say: No worries! / Anytime!
Quick answers
Ask first before the request: what to say in English
Say “Do you have a sec?” — polite: check if they're free. sec = second; also: Got a minute?
Hand it to them: what to say in English
Say “Could you take a look at this?” — polite way to ask for a quick check. take a look = check it quickly.
Your coworker agrees: what to say in English
Say “I'll get back to you.” — i’ll reply later. You can say first: No rush.
Warmer than Thank you: what to say in English
Say “I owe you one!” — friendly: I appreciate it. They may say: No worries! / Anytime!