Delegation is an essential skill for supervisors at any level of business management. It involves transferring responsibilities from a superior to a subordinate, allowing the manager to focus on higher-value activities while keeping employees engaged with greater autonomy. Delegation requires trust and mentorship, and it can be a great challenge for managers to learn. In this article, we'll explore the fundamentals of delegation in business management and provide tips on how to delegate effectively.
What is Delegation in Business Management?
In management, delegating refers to sharing or transferring responsibilities from a superior (or an employer) to a subordinate (or an employee).This allows the manager to free up time to focus on higher-value activities while keeping employees engaged with greater autonomy. Delegating tasks also helps build trust between the manager and the team, as it gives employees a better chance of excelling and being more motivated.
How to Delegate Effectively
Delegating work effectively requires clear instructions and communication. When assigning tasks, make sure you provide all the necessary information and resources for the person you're delegating to. If they need specific training or authority to complete the project, your role as a manager is to provide those things.Additionally, establish a communication channel so that the person you're delegating to feels comfortable asking questions and providing updates on progress.You should also monitor progress and send feedback after the tasks are finished. Ask your employees if you provided clear instructions and determine if there's anything you can do to delegate better in the future.
Example of Delegation in Business Management
Let's look at an example of delegation in business management. Carmen is the sole founder of a company and has been doing everything herself: marketing, accounting, business strategies, etc. To alleviate stress and improve efficiency, she decides to hire a junior accountant and a marketing manager to delegate work.She builds on the strengths of each intern and delegates the drafting of proposals to Carl and the conversation with key stakeholders to Dave.
