Delegation

Delegating can be hard because it’s tempting to try to do it all yourself to ensure it’s “done right”. But you can’t do everything yourself; projects are too big. Trust your team and delegate.

• Communicate your intention to delegate tasks, so that teams are prepared to receive assignments
• Make sure the team member is capable of handling the work and is given the authority they need to complete the task

Effective delegation

1. Select an appropriate person to delegate to
2. Define the task clearly and make sure it is suitable for delegation
3. Establish the desired outcome
4. Provide clear instructions and explain why the task is important
5. Agree on timing and deadlines
6. Support and communicate during the task
7. Provide feedback on performance and results

Challenges

Avoid these delegation mistakes:

• Delegating without controlling (abdication)
• Micromanaging
• Coercing a subordinate to take more responsibility
• Allowing reverse delegation (when a team member delegates upwards)
  • Who’s got the monkey

Tips

• Delegate early to give the person ample time to plan their tasks