What must an agent do to comply with the principal's instructions?

To comply with the principal's instructions, an agent is required to follow these instructions carefully and precisely. The essence of the agency relationship is that the agent acts on behalf of the principal, meaning that the agent has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the principal while adhering to the directives provided. This compliance ensures that the principal’s objectives are met and that the agent fulfills their responsibilities within the scope of their authority.

Following the principal's instructions is crucial in maintaining trust and clarity in the agency relationship. An agent who carefully adheres to these directives demonstrates loyalty and accountability, which are foundational principles in agency law. By doing so, the agent minimizes the risk of liability and potential conflicts that may arise from miscommunication or deviation from the principal's expectations.

Making independent decisions or acting based on personal judgments goes against the obligation to follow the principal's directives, as it introduces personal discretion that may not align with the principal's intentions. Similarly, consulting third parties might create complications unless specifically authorized by the principal, as it may also divert from the direct instructions given by the principal. Thus, the proper approach is for the agent to remain aligned with the principal’s instructions, ensuring effective representation and adherence to the agreed-upon terms of the agency relationship