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Being able to delegate effectively in a way that leaves people feeling good is a key skill for all successful managers and leaders. The desired outcome from delegation is to move something from our domain into someone else’s. The purpose of this is to develop the other person’s skills, and to free us up so we too can develop and take on other projects and responsibilities.

Before you delegate a task to someone else it is a good idea to setup what you are going to do. Think about how you will do this so that the other person sees how it will be an advantage to them. Agree beforehand that you are going to delegate some of your work, how this will happen and what the benefits will be to the other person as well as yourself. Follow the four steps of effective delegation (Set Frame, Agree Outcome, Check Understanding, Agree Controls).

STEP 1

• Set the frame – Explain why you are delegating. Refer back to your previous conversation.

STEP 2

• Agree the outcome – Clearly define the outcome to be achieved.
• Explain the purpose of the outcome.
• Agree when the outcome is to be reached.
• Explore the evidence of success. How will you both know that they have been successful?
• Identify the resources available.
• Agree an action plan.

STEP 3

• Check Understanding – Ask them to explain the outcome back to you.

STEP 4

• Agree Controls – Agree the checkpoints for you to assess progress and provide guidance.
• Monitor and encourage their progress, providing support and direction where needed.