Ben Kebil - Seven Secrets of Delegating

Successfully delegating tasks and projects within the scope of business creates an excitement that drives companies to arenas of accomplishment. Managers who understand the dynamics of team work delegate projects or tasks for two reasons. The first reason is to lighten their own load which provides more time to focus on projects of greater importance. Providing a learning experience for someone with potential is the second reason to assign a task to someone else. Knowing how to delegate without dumping or abdicating the project offers the key to achievement. Implement the seven secrets of delegating the next time the need arises.

1. Find the right person. When it's time to delegate a project finding the right person requires knowing what to look for in potential candidates. The person with the best skills for the job may not be the best person to use. Look for someone who shows enthusiasm with their current job and who exhibits a willingness to learn. Good communication skills along with a desire to further the company and not just themselves are another good indication that this is the right person to assign the task to.

2. Once you’ve delegated the project to someone else make sure the person is properly trained and ready to move forward alone. Adequately training a person may take time but in the long run you’ll reap the rewards as will the person you’ve delegated the job to, and the company.

3. Be completely clear regarding the project and what it entails. Communicate your expectations to the person. Gary A. Crow the author of Secrets of Leadership has this to say, "Tell them, show them, and then tell them what you showed them."

4. Set the person up for success. Provide him/her with all the tools and resources needed to complete the project successfully.

5. The person the task is delegated to must have the same authority to see the project to fruition as the manager who delegated it. Be sure the authority is given.

6. Supervise the project without micro-managing. Develop a check list that follows what and how the person is doing. Keep in mind that the person you’ve delegated the task to may not perform it in the same way you would. The buck stops at your desk. You are ultimately responsible for the success or failure of the project you assigned to someone else.

7. Show your appreciation as the project progresses and, if allowed, reward a task well-done.

Delegating a project to an enthusiastic team player frees up time for a manager, but it doesn’t mean not keeping your eye on the ball. Dropping a task in the lap of someone and then not following up may well doom the project to failure. Follow the seven secrets to delegating and create a winning atmosphere for you, those you manage, and the company.