How to delegate authority correctly
Admin
The art of management is achieving results through the efforts of other people. And delegation of authority is one of the main skills of an effective leader.
Brian Tracy, a well-known expert on efficiency and the psychology of success, has come up with a golden formula that will help you correctly delegate authority to subordinates. It includes 7 principles.
1. The level of the task must correspond to the level of the performer
Remember a simple rule: if a person can complete 70% of a task, he can be entrusted with it entirely. And if the task is completely new, correlate its complexity with the skills, abilities and level of motivation of the person to whom you plan to entrust it. It is important that the work is not too difficult and that the person can cope with it.
2. Delegate gradually
Transfer authority gradually, developing self-confidence in the person. Obviously, you want to “harden” it from the very beginning by loading it with many small tasks. But when the cases are larger and more serious, the delegation process must be gradual.
3. Delegate the entire task
One of the main motivators in the business environment is the feeling of full responsibility for the assigned task. 100% responsibility engenders confidence, competence and self-respect. Each of your employees, no matter what position they hold, should have at least one function for which they are entirely responsible. If he doesn't do the job, no one else will do it for him.
4. Expect a specific result
Think about what specific outcome you want to achieve when delegating. Help your subordinates clearly understand what you expect from them in the end. Be sure to ask again how the person understood the task and what is expected of him.
5. Encourage participation and discussion
There is a direct correlation between discussion and interest in getting the job done. When people have the opportunity to communicate directly with management, their desire to do a good job increases.
6. Delegate authority and responsibility
Delegate authority commensurate with the level of responsibility. If the task is large, let employees know how much time will be allocated to it and who they can contact for additional help. A common mistake managers make is underestimating what employees might need to do a good job, be it time or money.
7. Leave the performer alone
Let the subordinate bear 100% responsibility. Don't take the task back. You may, without realizing it, take it back by constantly checking in with the employee, demanding accountability, and suggesting changes and adjustments to the process.
The ability to delegate a task is a key factor in a leader's success. With the right delegation, your potential is virtually limitless. Without this skill, you will be forced to do everything yourself.