Conflicting instructions from colleagues
One colleague tells you to do a task one way, and another colleague tells you something different. You follow one version, but it turns out to be wrong and now a mistake has happened.
The situation
One colleague tells you to do a task one way, and another colleague tells you something different. You follow one version, but it turns out to be wrong and now a mistake has happened.
Recommended Response
C. Admit the mistake, explain that you received conflicting instructions, fix what you can, and ask for one confirmed source of truth next time.
This takes responsibility without accepting unfair blame for unclear instructions.
Context matters. This is a recommendation for the situation described, not a rule for every interaction.
Explore every response
A. Blame the colleague who gave you the wrong information so everyone knows it was not your fault.
The source of the confusion matters, but blame alone does not repair the mistake or improve the process.
B. Hide the mistake and correct it quietly if possible.
If the mistake affects other work, hiding it can create a bigger problem and damage trust.
C. Admit the mistake, explain that you received conflicting instructions, fix what you can, and ask for one confirmed source of truth next time. (Recommended)
This takes responsibility without accepting unfair blame for unclear instructions.
D. Refuse to take tasks from either colleague again.
You may need clearer authority, but refusing all work may not be realistic or proportionate.
E. Ask the two colleagues to confirm the correct instruction together before you continue.
This is useful if the mistake can still be contained and you need immediate clarity.
Why is C the recommended response?
Understanding this situation
The strongest response repairs the mistake and improves the system. It is fair to own your part while asking for clearer instructions.
Another reasonable perspective
Getting both people to confirm the instruction is reasonable when the work cannot continue safely without agreement.
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