One of the first rules in delegating is to assess the commitment of those to whom you are delegating responsibility. The most critical consequence of ineffective delegating is the need for damage control if the projects are not carried out effectively.
You will become skilled at delegating if you:
- Coordinate with others who are as invested in your goals as you are.
- Convey priorities clearly.
- Articulates what is expected.
- Reinforces expectations through follow-up, written memos.
- Keeps an up-to-date list of delegated tasks.
- Requests others to report on progress.
- Updates “to do” lists of those completing tasks pre-deadline.
- Perseveres and is persistent to avoid deadline dilemmas.
- Re-evaluates mid-way through timeline.
- Is willing to re-establish a priority if this becomes necessary.
- Ensures that others are not falling behind in their tasks.
- Looks for incentives to promote productivity and follow-through.
- Is clear on expectations, both verbally and in writing.
- Avoids deadline dilemmas.
- Stresses the need for follow-through.
- Acts decisively.
- Generates solutions when delegated tasks fall behind.
- Knows how to enlist colleagues help when facing a crisis.
- Prepares interim reports for team members.
- Respects those to whom work has been delegated.
Adapted by Ferol, our MBA on campus, Copyright 2007 Watson