9 steps to successful delegation

DEFINE the TASK

Establish in your own mind the precise nature of the task.

Is it appropriate to delegate this task?

SELECT the PERSON(s)

Why have you chosen this person?

Are you being fair?

What will they get out of it?

ASSESS ABILITY or TRAINING NEEDS

Is the person you have chosen capable of doing the task?

Do they understand what needs to be done?

Do they need some training / assistance

(and who will provide this)?

EXPLAIN the REASONS

Explain the importance of the job.

Explain where it fits in the overall scheme of things.

Explain why you are delegating it to them.

STATE the OUTCOMES

(REQUIRED RESULTS)

Explain what must be achieved.

Explain how the task will be measured / assessed.

(Agree the �standards�)

Clarify understanding by getting feedback from the other person.

CONSIDER RESOURCES REQUIRED

What equipment or materials will be needed?

(Consider contingencies � potential problems.)

Who else will assist?

Is there financial implication?

AGREE DEADLINES

When must the job be finished?

Agree methods of monitoring.

(Ensure this is not viewed as interference or lack of trust.)

SUPPORT and COMMUNICATE

Who else needs to know that the task has been delegated?

(Your line manager?  Work colleagues?  The person�s workmates?)

Do you need to keep in touch as situation develops � and how will you do this?

FEEDBACK ON RESULTS

You need to know when task complete.

How did it go?  If the task led to problems, discuss these.

Provide constructive feedback on completion of task.

Pass on credit for success.