Delegating is key to your company’s success because it ensures that you’re not wasting time on tasks that anyone can do, and are instead investing your time on high-level tasks that only you can do. In order for delegation to work, however, you have to be strategic about it. This includes picking the right people, communicating your expectations, scheduling check-ins, and trusting in your leadership.
To get started, here are the four basic steps to delegating any task more effectively, and making sure the job gets done well:
1 – Pick the right person
Delegate your tasks to the right person with the appropriate skillset. Make sure the individual you choose is up to the challenge and understands what is at stake. Explain to them why the project is happening, what the purpose is, and why it is so important to the company.
2 – Communicate your expectations
Communicate to the individual the precise outcome you expect, and make sure it’s measurable. For example, if you delegate the writing of an important report to a member of your staff, tell them exactly how long it needs to be, what information must be included, and when you need to see a first draft.
3 – Schedule check-ins
Don’t drop by your employee’s office unannounced, or send a harried email first thing Monday morning to ask how a project is going. Instead, schedule regular check-ins ahead of time to get your updates. Use those appointments to review their progress and make sure they are still on the same page.
4 – Trust
Although you’re still responsible for the outcome of this project, once you’ve delegated your task you have to give up some control and know that you’ve chosen the right person for the job. Trust in your leadership skills and use the time you’ve freed up to focus on tasks that only you can do.
