Five Steps to Effective Delegation

When you think about delegating a job, is your motive to simply unload some of your own work? According to author Greg Balanko-Dickson, it shouldn’t be. He says it should be more about gaining cooperation to achieve a goal. It’s an opportunity for the business owner or manager to

• empower the individual
• motivate (inspire an employee to new levels of performance and responsibility)
• encourage an employee in the delegation process

Balanko-Dickson further says that “delegation can be a powerful tool and especially makes sense when one of your staff members enjoys it, is skilled in the area and is willing
to take it on.” He lists the following five steps to delegation and motivation:

1. Examine Your Motive. Why are you delegating?
   Be certain you are not just getting rid of work.
   Your aim should be to teach, coach or inspire.

2. Define the Task. Clearly describe the purpose of
   the task or goal.

3. Set the Vision. Explain to employees that you noted good performance and want to provide them with an opportunity to take on new responsibility.

4. Clarify Expectations. Explain that if they have
   problems or need help, you expect them to ask for
   support, clarification or assistance.

5. Assign the Task. Clearly describe the task and
   the manner in which you prefer it completed;
   then set a deadline.

   Source: small business is here!, www.sbishere.com.