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	Delegate For Success

	by Ann Gambrell

If one of your goals is to accomplish more or to make better use of your time -- or to make time for other projects including leisure activities -- you need to learn to delegate. Delegating involves enlisting the time and expertise of OTHERS to serve your purpose. Delegation can be a powerful TOOL -- whether in the workplace to increase productivity and diversity, or in the home setting where family members learn responsibilities, teamwork, and family values.

A NEW TOOL

Then why don’t we delegate more? Perfectionism is one reason, time constraints are another, and lack of knowledge is a few reasons. Delegation can be LEARNED and takes time and patience, but the payoff is well worth it. Here are a few steps to get you started:

WHO DO YOU DELEGATE TO?

Whenever possible, give the assignment to the right person. The right person may be the one who is most qualified -- or it might be the person who is most EAGER to learn or advance. If appropriate offer a CHOICE of jobs or projects, allowing the delegatee to choose either the most familiar work or the least objectionable. Having a choice makes it easier to delegate and allows the other person to feel like he or she is a part of the planning of the project.

GIVE THEM WHAT THEY NEED

Provide the necessary tools and training for the assignment -- and make sure the other person UNDERSTANDS their responsibilities and consequences. You cannot afford to have them drop the ball -- remember, the final accountability lies with you, the delegator. It’s always a good idea to provide a delegation LIST or job description in writing -- discussed and signed by both parties, if appropriate.Then everyone knows what is to be done and in what time frame.

IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE PERFECT

Perfectionism can be dangerous in the delegation process -- think progress rather than perfection. Most projects are in need of COMPLETION rather than being done exactly as you would have done it. “Your way” may be a good way but not the ONLY way to do something. Yes, having it done properly is important, but not necessarily your way. Frequently, delegatees will come up with a new and/or innovative way to reach the same result -- maybe even quicker or easier. Allow this to happen, if it will not compromise the project. It will encourage the delegatee to be creative and forward-thinking. And it becomes easier to delegate when perfectionism doesn’t hinder the process.

STAY IN TOUCH

Follow-up is crucial to the success of the project. It not only encourages learning and provides your delegatee with much-needed support, but follow-up also ensures ACCOUNTABILITY. When you are checking in at regular points along the way, the chance that something will be missed or bungled is greatly reduced. Regularly scheduled observations or MEETINGS will ensure the timely and acceptable completion of your project.

GIVE CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE

Of course the positive end result of successful delegation is that the project is complete and both parties are satisfied. Self-satisfaction and inner pride at a job well done are the ultimate rewards -- but material remuneration is also acceptable. If you can’t afford a bonus or gift, verbal kudos are great -- as are RECOGNITION in a company newsletter, printed certificate, the award of special privileges. Recognition is essential to ensure a willing working relationship in the future.

STOP PLAYING AN OUTDATED ROLE

Remember, delegation is hot and individualism is not. Being an OVERWORKED martyr is stressful and non-productive. So be an “In” manager and delegate for success.

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