It’s good to let go
So much to do, so little time – sound familiar? Then take a moment to refresh your delegating tactics. With the right support you could fulfil your goals faster. And if you’re after a helping hand for admin and business payments, then look no further than the Allstar Expense business credit card.* Delegate away and focus on opportunities instead.
Just remember the 5 C’s
1. CLARIFY the task or ask
Handing over a project? Make sure your instructions are crystal clear. The task might come as second nature to you – but not for the person you’re delegating to. Think about the outcome you want to achieve. How does the task fit into the bigger picture? How will you measure the success? Are specific resources, tools or training needed to get the job done? When everyone knows what’s expected, you’ll already be heading for success.
2. CHOOSE the right person for the job
When you’re savvy about the team’s individual strengths, it’s easier to delegate. You might pick the perfect person for the job based on what they’re naturally great at. That way, they’re more likely to excel. Doing this can boost productivity and you’ll avoid a ‘square pegs into round holes’ scenario. But it’s not always who can do the job. It’s also worth considering who’s up for a challenge or who could gain new skills. Someone less experienced might take longer to complete the task – but you’ll be upskilling them at the same time.
3. COMMUNICATE effectively
It’s good to talk. Be an open book and keep communication flowing. Check in regularly and provide feedback about what’s working and what isn’t – here’s some tips below on how to do just that.
Plan regular reviews
Schedule your check-ins, whether that’s a daily or weekly catch-up and set aside time to field questions as the project progresses.
Establish key milestones
These markers will guide your team and provide an overview. Milestones will also give everyone a clear understanding of the project scope and objectives, and determine common goals for team members to aim for.
Actively listen/Practice active listening
Face-to-face meetings work best because you can maintain eye contact. But they aren’t always possible. Even on a video call you can actively listen and be attentive. Allow space for the conversation and don’t jump in with advice too quickly. Have empathy and ask open-ended questions. Reflect on what’s being said – and encourage the speaker with nods or a quick ‘yes’.
4. CREATE trust and ownership
Encourage new ideas and approaches and give those you delegate to the freedom and autonomy to achieve their goals. Don’t be tempted to micromanage but trust your team to get the job done. Here are some of the ways you could create a place of mutual trust and respect:
One-to-one coaching sessions to support individuals involved.
Strengthen collaboration with team building exercises – you could start with a few icebreaker ideas.
Share information with your team openly and be willing to listen to feedback.
5. CHAMPION and correct
We all like getting a thumbs up, and diehard delegators know when to give kudos and celebrate achievements. Cheerlead, coach and be there at key points and see how your team will go the extra mile. Having regular updates will also let you feedback on what needs changing. Great delegators don’t see mistakes but see learning opportunities.
“If you want to do a few small things right, do them yourself. If you want to do great things and make a big impact, learn to delegate.” – Developing the Leaders Around You, John C. Maxwell.
THE ALLSTAR DELEGATION MATRIX
Use this template to prioritise project tasks and decide which activities to tackle, to delegate, or delete.
We hope you’re now ready to delegate like a king. And with an Allstar Expense business credit card* taking care of business payments – you’ll have even more time back to push your business forward. Don’t pass this by. Get yours here.
*Available to limited companies only. Subject to status and full credit check.
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