The ability to delegate sets leaders apart from followers. That is because many people find it difficult to give up control. Delegating duties and responsibilities is essential in today’s downsized organizations. The following key points will help you master the art of delegation:
Find the right person for the project.
Do not assign the project to just any warm body – unless any outcome is acceptable. If you want the job done right, however,you must find the right person for the job. If none exists, find the most capable person and train him or her well.
Delegate authority and accountability.
The worst thing you can do is delegate a task and then tie a person’s hands. If you have picked the right person or trained someone well, you must then give that person authority so the job can be done without your supervision. If you have to minutely supervise the project, you have not truly delegated it. In addition, you should make the person accountable for the quality of the work performed.
Make the task perfectly clear.
Carefully explain the nature of the project to the person to whom you are assigning responsibility. This may be done verbally or in writing, depending on the complexity of the task. The newer and more complex the task, the more questions the person to whom you are giving responsibility should have. Answer all questions promptly and thoroughly.
Agree on a deadline.
When the person to whom you are delegating fully understands your expectations, both of you are in a position to determine a mutually acceptable deadline. Review and coach. There is a learning curve associated with any new activity. During this time, you should periodically review the other person’s progress and offer additional coaching if needed.
Lay the groundwork for more delegation.
Once you get your feet wet, you will find more things that can be done by others to free up your time. Begin training people to assist you in more operations, and you will find yourself with more time to do what you do best.
This article was published in the June/July 2010 At Your Service Newsletter, publication of Club Managers Association of America (CMAA)
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Dr. Tony Alessandra is a behavioral and communication expert, and author of 17 books including The Platinum Rule, Collaborative Selling and The Art of Managing People. Today he is a leading business motivational speaker on communication, customer loyalty and sales.
