10 Other Ways to Say “This Is Your Job”

Telling someone “This is your job” at work can sometimes sound harsh or too direct.

This article introduces ten alternatives to this phrase that maintain professionalism and respect. Each alternative is explained with examples, so you can find the best way to convey responsibilities without causing misunderstanding or offense.

Is It Professional to Say “This Is Your Job”?

Using the phrase “this is your job” can sometimes come off as informal and not very polite. Generally, it’s seen as direct and to the point, but it lacks a bit of tact that is often valued in professional environments. This phrase is best used in situations where roles and responsibilities need to be made clear without any ambiguity.

It’s more suitable for conversations with people you have an established, informal rapport with and less suitable for formal correspondence or discussions with senior management or external contacts. When choosing the communication channel, direct face-to-face communication or a private message might be more appropriate than saying it in a public setting or in written communication where the tone can be misunderstood.

Here’s an example:

Hello Tom,

I noticed the monthly report hasn't been completed. This is your job, and it's critical it's done by tomorrow for the client meeting.

Thanks,
Alex

Pros:

• It is very clear and leaves no room for misunderstanding who is responsible for the task.
• Can quickly clarify expectations in a straightforward manner.

Cons:

• May come across as blunt or unkind, possibly hurting the professional relationship.
• Lacks the nuance and professionalism that more formal language carries, potentially leading to misunderstandings or resentment.

If someone is looking for an alternative phrase, they might consider it because using synonyms or different words can help soften the message. This makes communication more pleasant and maintains a positive atmosphere.

10 Other Ways to Say “This Is Your Job”

Finding the right words can make a big difference in workplace communication. Here are ten alternatives to “This is your job” that keep the message professional while being a bit more polite:

1. It falls under your responsibilities

This alternative is a bit more formal and polite than saying “This is your job.” It gently reminds the recipient of their duties without coming across as too demanding. It carries a tone of professionalism that is suitable for written communication.

It’s best used when addressing tasks that clearly belong to a person’s job description. This phrase works well in emails or memos to team members when clarifying roles and responsibilities.

Email example:

Dear Lisa,

As you know, the monthly budget report is due soon. It falls under your responsibilities to ensure it is completed on time.

Regards,
Mark

2. This task is part of your role

This synonym is useful as it directly ties the task to the individual’s job role, making it clear and polite. It’s somewhat informal, making it perfect for a workplace that values straightforward communication.

This phrase is particularly effective in one-on-one emails or when assigning new tasks that are still within the scope of the recipient’s role. It ensures clarity without seeming too harsh.

Email example:

Hello Kevin,

Please remember, this task is part of your role, and we need it completed by the end of the week.

Best,
Emily

3. You’re the lead on this project

Highlighting someone’s leadership role on a project is both a polite and professional way to remind them of their responsibilities. It’s slightly more informal but effective in a team setting.

This alternative is excellent for motivating someone by recognizing their leadership. It’s best suited for emails or meetings where project roles are being discussed or clarified.

Email example:

Hi Jordan,

Just a reminder, you're the lead on this project, and we're counting on your guidance for the upcoming presentation.

Cheers,
Samantha

4. This is within your purview

This phrase is akin to saying “this is your job” but does so in a more formal and professional manner. It’s a polite way of defining boundaries and responsibilities.

Use this when you need to address tasks that someone might not recognize as their own. It’s very effective in emails to colleagues or subordinate staff members when there is a need to delineate job functions clearly.

Email example:

Dear Alex,

As discussed, handling client feedback is within your purview. Please ensure all comments are addressed by next week.

Kind regards,
Jessica

5. It’s your area of expertise

This synonym plays a dual role: reminding someone of their duties while complimenting their skills. It’s very polite and boosts morale by emphasizing the recipient’s professional strengths.

This alternative is better suited when you are delegating tasks that align closely with someone’s skills or when encouraging team members to take ownership of their areas of expertise. It’s great for emails, particularly in collaborative project settings.

Email example:

Hey Morgan,

The upcoming project needs your touch. Remember, it's your area of expertise.

Warmly,
Taylor

6. You’re responsible for this task

While straightforward, this alternative is a bit softer than the original, making it a professional and polite option for task delegation. It clearly defines who is accountable without seeming blunt.

This phrase is ideal for use in project management situations, especially in emails or digital platforms where tasks and responsibilities need to be clearly assigned.

Email example:

Hello Pat,

For the upcoming event, you're responsible for this task. Let's ensure everything runs smoothly.

Thank you,
Jordan

7. This is in your wheelhouse

This idiom conveys that the task is well within someone’s skill set, making it a formal yet polite way to assign tasks. It acknowledges the recipient’s capabilities in a professional manner.

It’s especially suitable for encouraging employees or colleagues to engage in tasks that they are highly skilled at. This phrase fits perfectly in emails and team meetings where contributions are being sought.

Email example:

Hi Casey,

We need your expertise on this. This is in your wheelhouse, and we trust your judgment.

Best wishes,
Drew

8. You’ve been assigned this work

This phrase explicitly states that the task has been designated to the recipient, making it clear and polite. It carries formal and professional weight, suitable for most workplace communications.

It’s best used in email correspondences or project management tools where tasks are being distributed. It’s particularly effective for formal task assignments and when initiating new projects.

Email example:

Dear Robin,

As part of the project team, you've been assigned this work. Please update us on your progress by next week.

Sincerely,
Erin

9. This task aligns with your duties

This alternative emphasizes the relevance of the task to the recipient’s job role in a formal, polite, and professional way. It gently nudges the recipient to take ownership of the task.

This phrase is suitable for reminders in emails or meetings, particularly when there is a need to reinforce job roles and responsibilities without coming across as too direct.

Email example:

Hello Blake,

Please remember, this task aligns with your duties, and we're looking forward to your contribution.

Regards,
Michelle

10. Your position covers this task

Stating that someone’s job position includes certain tasks is a professional, polite, and clear way of assigning responsibilities. It’s formal enough for all types of workplace communication.

When you want to remind someone of their job responsibilities in a respectfully direct way, this synonym works well. It’s especially effective in emails or written documents when there’s a need to clarify roles.

Email example:

Dear Jamie,

As a reminder, your position covers this task. We are counting on you to lead the effort.

Warm regards,
Kelly

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right words is crucial when assigning tasks in a way that keeps everyone motivated and respected. The ten alternatives provided aim to make workplace communication smoother and more effective. By using these phrases, you can ensure clarity in task delegation while maintaining a positive work environment.