EPISODE ELEVEN
Leadership Essentials: Delegation
SUMMARY
Delegation is something that so many leaders struggle with. They have a mindset that they can do a task better than their colleagues so they retain it. Invariably they recognise they should train staff to enhance their skills and subsequent ability to execute the task, but do not feel they have the time.
James Rule shares six steps to help every leader master this critical leadership essential.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
PREPARE
Review your To Do List and ask yourself what can I delegate, delete and do?
Without taking the time to ask and reflect on this simple question you are left with one huge and ever expanding To Do List.
ASSIGN
You have colleagues with a range of competencies. Reflect and decide who is best placed to help you with the task in hand.
BE SPECIFIC
A lack of clarity dooms delegation to failure. Be very clear and specific about what result you desire. Ensure your colleague is clear on the outcome. Encourage them to ask as many questions as they need to establish that clarity. Finally ensure they have the resources they need to execute effectively.
DO NOT MICROMANAGE
You must have trust in your people. To micromanage implies that you do not. It is a sure fire way to frustrate and erode creativity. You have set the destination (result) you expect and get out of the way and let them show you how they intend to get there.
FEEDBACK
It is essential to spend time reviewing the delegated work and providing feedback to the individual who delivered it. This often neglected step is invaluable. It allows you to educate and train your colleague so they can improve future execution.
It also highlights any gaps in your delivery in the ‘Be Specific’ step. These learnings, when implemented, significantly increase the success of delegation which naturally improves leaders' willingness and ability to delegate.
GRATITUDE
Understanding the complex needs and demands of your boss is not always straightforward. People usually have a lengthy ´To Do List´ prior to the arrival of this newly delegated task! You can create a sense of overwhelm and frustration when you delegate.
A leader needs to recognise that and be genuine in expressing their gratitude for the support they receive form their colleague.
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
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