Delegating a task is not just about assigning work—it is also about setting clear boundaries around decision-making and authority. Without this clarity, misunderstandings can arise, leading to frustration, delays, or outcomes that miss the mark. Our definition of Delegation is: Sharing Authority and Responsibility with another person. When this is communicated well, it’s a recipe for success. When this is left up to interpretation, it’s a recipe for disaster.
When leaders fail to define the level of authority, team members may either overstep and make choices they were not meant to make, or hesitate and delay progress because they are unsure what decisions are theirs to own. In both cases, the work suffers and trust can be strained.
(more…)Effective leadership is not about always being involved or always giving space. It is about knowing when each approach is needed. Some situations call for a hands-on style, where you give detailed guidance, offer close support, and monitor progress closely. Others benefit from a hands-off style, allowing the person to take ownership and work independently.
The right approach depends on both the nature of the task and the needs of the person doing it. A high-stakes, time-sensitive project with unclear steps might require you to be more involved. On the other hand, a skilled team member working on familiar ground might do their best work with minimal oversight.
(more…)Delegating a task is more than simply handing it off. It is an opportunity to develop someone’s skills, build their confidence, and prepare them for greater responsibility. That development does not happen automatically. It requires follow-up in the form of coaching and feedback after the task is complete.
Too often, leaders treat delegation as a one-time transaction. They assign the work, receive the results, and move on to the next priority. While this might get the task done, it misses a valuable chance to reinforce learning. Without feedback, the person has no way of knowing what worked well and what could be improved.
(more…)Delegation is a core leadership skill, but it is not a one-size-fits-all process. Each project and each person brings unique needs, skills, and challenges. Using the same delegation style in every situation can lead to misunderstandings, missed deadlines, or results that fall short of expectations.
Some tasks require a high level of structure and clear step-by-step instructions, especially when the work is new or complex. Others call for a more open-ended approach, allowing the person to bring creativity and ownership to the process. The right style depends on the nature of the work and the experience and confidence of the person doing it.
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