Why Delegation is Important

Many people start a small business to create, mold, and guide that business into fulfilling their vision - not to conform to another individual’s dream. During the start-up phase of any business endeavor, the entrepreneur must be cognizant of every part of their business. However, as the company begins to grow and employees come aboard, it is imperative that the business owner focuses on business growth so that the company doesn't become stagnant. To have time to focus on business growth, though, an entrepreneur needs to learn to delegate daily tasks and operations to employees.

Ways to delegate

Of course, it's best for small business owners to adopt delegation tactics that work best for their company and employees, but there are three main ways owners can delegate:

• Verbal – Verbal delegation is the most efficient way to delegate; however, it does present possible perils. Make sure to be clear and concise in instructions and expected results. Confirm the employee’s understanding of the assigned task, including when the task needs to be completed.

• Written – Written delegation is efficient and leaves less room for misunderstanding than verbal delegation. Email is a practical method of communicating assignments and instructions if both are presented. Written instruction also gives the employer and employee a visual reminder of what has been assigned and which assignments must be completed.

• Project management software – Project management software is a valuable business tool for delegation, particularly when multiple assignments must be completed with many deadlines. This software keeps track of what was assigned, when, to whom it was assigned, and when the assignment is due.

Delegation mistakes to avoid

Just as there are delegation strategies to take advantage of, there are also some mistakes to avoid:

• Micromanaging - Micromanaging defeats the purpose of delegation. Instead of relieving stress, micromanagement adds to it both for the business owner and the employee tasked with the assignment.

• Not setting clear expectations/goals – By being unclear in instructions, expectations, and desired results, an entrepreneur is setting up an employee for failure. Succinct communication is critical in delegation, or the assigned task could be completed incorrectly. This will result in the need for a repeated task, which wastes both the business owner’s and the employee’s time.

• Not allowing for mistakes and failure – Regardless of how concise instructions may be, it is imperative to allow for mistakes and failure. An employee may complete an assignment in a manner that is different from what the business owner envisioned. When delegating tasks, provide additional time if mistakes occur so that the assignment can be corrected. Be understanding and tolerant of mistakes, as this is how employees learn.

• Not reviewing the work – When an employee has completed a delegated task, review the work to ensure they completed it to company standards.

Delegation is an essential business tool. While it may seem frightening at first, delegating tasks to employees relieves a small business owner from daily stresses and potential burnout so that they can focus on the company’s future goals and growth. If an entrepreneur is mired in the daily operations of their company, growth will stop, and the company will not be able to remain competitive. So, delegate - the company's longevity depends on it. 

If you have questions about delegating or other ways to improve your organization, Contact Stevan Browning, a business advisor and coach with over 40 years of experience. 

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