From time-to-time, a member will tell me that he or she has demanded of their Head confirmation of a direction, "in writing."
Avoiding the blame for an action that seems to be both inappropriate and involuntary is the most common motivation.
First, the bad news: In general, you don't have the right to demand that instructions be made (or confirmed) in writing. But maybe it isn't so bad: After all, if the boss authors the tale, who do you imagine will emerge as the hero in that telling? Here's a hint, it won't be you.
The good news is that you're free to confirm the instructions with a missive saying, for example:
Dear Boss,As you directed, I ordered the desk for your office this afternoon. And, as you indicated, I reflected the expense as "other" (as the amount exceeds the desk policy limit by $7,216.48).
Similarly, if you're directed to sign a dubious document (thereby shouldering the responsibility for its doubtful accuracy), you might want to add a note, "Signed on instructions from Joe Bloggs."
Such tactics, however, should be preceded, if possible, by polite advice about your concerns.
Finally, there are times when it's necessary to refuse a direction. Such situations, while rare, are serious; so, will be discussed here in the future.
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