How to Give Advice Wisely

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By Althea DeBrule
User-Submitted Article

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(5 Ratings)

Giving advice can either be hurtful or helpful. Although well meant, advice that has not been asked for can sometimes destroy a friendship and damage a relationship. But advice that has been solicited can positively impact decision-making and forward progress. Sometimes it’s hard to know whether or not to offer counsel and guidance. Use these 6 steps to learn how to give advice wisely.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Listening Skills
Knowledge or Experience Related to the Advice

Step 1

Practice active listening to understand the problem or situation from the other person’s perspective.
Step 2

Use discernment to see if the person really wants your advice. Make sure you are not offering it to promote your own self-interests.
Step 3

Ask for permission to give advice. Under no circumstances should you offer it until you have received their OK.
Step 4

When giving advice, keep it short and to the point. Suggest at least one action that could be taken. Frame the advice so that the person learns something and is able to move forward.
Step 5

Tie the advice directly to the person’s stated goal or outcome. Help the individual to come to his or her own conclusions and make wise decisions.
Step 6

Follow up after an appropriate interval to see if your advice was helpful.