The_Essential_Manager_s_Handbook

44 / MANAGING A TEAM

Letting go

Managers often have trouble delegating.

Some are afraid to give up control,

explaining, “I like to do things myself,

because then I know it’s done and it’s

done right.” Others lack confidence in

their employees or fear that they may

be criticized for others’ mistakes. While

CLARIFY THE

ASSIGNMENT

Explain what is being

delegated, the results

you expect, and

the timeframe.

SET BOUNDARIES

Ensure that the

delegatees understand

precisely what the

parameters are of

the authority you are

bestowing on them.

ENCOURAGE

PARTICIPATION

Involve delegatees in

decisions about what

is delegated, how

much authority is

needed, and standards

to be attained.

you may be capable of doing the

tasks you delegate better, faster,

or with fewer mistakes, it is

not possible to do everything

yourself. If you often feel that your

team isn’t taking ownership of

projects it may suggest that

you are handing out tasks,

You should expect and

accept some mistakes

by those you delegate

to; mistakes are often

good learning

experiences How to delegate

US_044-045_Delegating_Effectively.indd 44 30/05/16 3:00 pm