Delegation Ideas

, , , , ,

Take time to define the task before you assign it. (This is the hardest part of
delegation!) What do you want done? How does it need to look? When do you want it finished? What resources are available? How does the person access those resources? What will you take as signs of success? What pitfalls may occur? What safety nets are in place?

Match the person to the task. Give people assignments that will capitalize on their talents and capabilities and/or will teach them new skills that they can use in future assignments.

Build a person’s confidence by assigning low-risk projects at first. Be there to answer questions, not just in the beginning, but when they are about a third of the way into it, which when they now know what questions they should
have asked in the beginning!

When communicating the assignment, use vocabulary that is easily understood. Avoid jargon and slang that is unfamiliar. Put things in writing as well as saying them verbally. Be more concerned with what needs to be done and when it is due, than how it gets done. Let your people try new ways of accomplishing the task. They may find an easier, faster way of getting the result you want.

Don’t be tempted to take over the project. The person performing the task may not do it the way you would, but that is how they learn.

Give the person credit when the assignment is complete. Be sure to let them know that you are appreciative of their work and if appropriate, also let others know how well the person performed.

Written By

drmimi

  • Dear Dr. Mimi – Poor

    Dear Dr. Mimi,How do I ask my employer to assist me in paying for my education? I would use my education to get a better job in our company. I can’t afford it at the salary I am currently receiving. I know that they have paid others to go to classes in the past.—Poor Dear…

  • Dear Dr. Mimi – Improperly Trained

    Dear Dr. Mimi,I have an assignment and feel like I am falling behind because I simply don’t know what to do. I am new to the company and had one week to train and get familiar with the work environment, but I feel like my training was rushed and had gaps. How do I approach…

  • Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

    Imposter syndrome is the belief that one’s success is due to luck rather than skill, despite evidence of competence. Here’s how to overcome it. Imposter syndrome means you care about doing well. By recognizing these feelings and challenging them, you can achieve your goals with confidence.You’ve earned your success—now own it!