Benefits of Delegation

Managers often have trouble delegating.

Effective delegation is key for any manager. It will free up your time, allowing you to focus on big-picture strategic activities. it can also lead to better decision-making, because it pushes decisions down the organization, meaning that decision-makers are often closer to the problems. It also helps those you are managing develop their own decision-making skills and prepares them for future promotion opportunities

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 you may be capable of doing the tasks you delegate better, faster, or with fewer mistakes, it is not possible to do everything yourself. However, you should expect, and accept, some mistakes by those you delegate to.

Mistakes are often good learning experiences. You also should put adequate controls and mechanisms for feedback in place so you will know what is happening.

ACTION POINT: Look for opportunities to delegate tasks to others.