Issue 42: Smart Delegation

"The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers."

— Ralph Nader, political activist and author

Welcome to our 42nd issue!

This week, we’re focusing on a common leadership mistake: crappy delegation. Leaders who delegate effectively are more strategic. Leaders who don’t provide the right tools and guidance when they’re delegating set their teams and themselves up for failure, frustration and crappy results.

Here’s What It Looks Like:

• Assigning Tasks Without Guidance: It’s easy to assume that assigning a task is enough, but if you’re not clear on expectations in a way that your team understands - meaning they communicated the expectations back to you in their own words - they may feel uncertain about where to start. The result? Confusion, mistakes, and frustration.

• Lacking Necessary Resources: Delegating without making sure your team has access to the right tools, time, or information sets them up for more failure and frustration. What you end up with is incomplete work, rework, and low morale with engagement scores to match.

• Inadequate Follow-Up: Assigning a task and then stepping back entirely can leave your team feeling unsupported. There's no need to micromanage, but without a quick check in to let them know you're available for questions they may feel abandoned and unsure of how to move forward effectively.

How to Provide Supportive Delegation:

• First, by clearly communicating expectations, deadlines, and expected outcomes. Be ready to offer guidance and make yourself available for questions along the way.

• Ensure your team has what they need to succeed, including tools, access, and a quick check in for support.

• Make time AFTER the task is complete for a quick debrief. What turned out as expected? What didn't?

When I work with leaders, I introduce them to the Smart Delegation framework that ensures you delegate tasks effectively, so everyone understands what "success" looks like, while providing your team with the resources and support they need to excel. 

Smart delegation means that, instead of simply offloading tasks, you’re equipping your team to be independent, autonomous, and to feel valued. Talk about empowered, right?!

As if that wasn't enough, you’ll also position yourself as a leader who drives success and knows how to develop others.

If you’re ready to for smart delegation and a team that works well together, schedule a consultation. We’ll explore strategies to ensure your delegation leads to successful outcomes and a stronger, more engaged team.

Next Week's Preview:

Next week, we’ll start a new series focused on advanced leadership strategies. Until then, consider how you can give your team the resources and support they need to succeed when you delegate.

Go out there and lead,

Asia