Delegation isn’t easy, so don’t get fooled into thinking it is. But if you’re ready to start delegating and want to do it successfully, here a few things you need to do.
Before you delegate any task or project make sure you know:
- How the work you are delegating connects to the organization/unit vision so you can communicate this to the person you are delegating to.
- What you expect in terms of reporting back to you (the what, where, when, why, and how things you are delegating will get done) and how are you going to judge the person you are delegating to.
- All the types of relevant support and resources that will be available to the person, who they can ask for help (you, someone else) and what other financial, learning, or other resources are available to them to get the job done well.
When you delegate :
- Be clear and direct.
- Set expectations, show support, and offer resources.
- Speak slowly, repeat key points, and don’t be afraid to clarify and confirm when you think it’s necessary.
- Let the person know you are confident in them but that you also recognize the difficulties they may have completing the task.
- Set follow-up touch base meetings. Schedule one soon after the delegation to see how things are going and to make course corrections if needed.
- Always ask the person you are delegating to for a recap so you know you were heard.
Communicate your vision!