To become an effective delegator, focus on delegating tasks that are low priority but could become urgent if not handled. When delegating a task, prepare the person by explaining what is needed, showing them how to complete it, and letting them try it out. Be sure to set SMART objectives for delegated tasks that specify what should be achieved and how the person will know, and give a clear timescale for completion. Periodically check in with those you delegate to ensure they have what they need and are on track to finish on schedule.

1. How to become a “super delegator”

2. Not having time to delegate is short term thinking. Taking time to delegate
effectively today, will save you time tomorrow. Once you have delegated a task
successfully, you can continue to delegate that task in future. Giving you time to
concentrate on the tasks that need your undivided attention.
Time management
is a myth!
Youcan’tmanagetime
somanageyourself

3. Delegate to someone who is relatively under-occupied or someone who has a skill
that could be easily developed for the new task. Alternatively, look for the most
talented in your team. Talent thrives on being given new challenges.

4. Be fair about who you delegate to. Avoid being tempted to delegate to the person
who always says “yes” (and avoid being the person who always says “yes”).

5. What to delegate?
Delegate those tasks with the lowest level of importance. Early delegation will
prevent those tasks from becoming important – urgent, high priority tasks, that only
you can accomplish.

6. The most important thing to remember is that, although the task is second nature to
you, it may be new to them. Prepare to delegate, explain what you want done,
show them how to do it and then let them try for themselves!
•PrepareP
•ExplainE
•ShowS
•TryT

8. Set SMART objectives. Ensure you are specific about what you want the person to
achieve. Explain how they know they have achieved what they set out to do. Ensure
that the task is achievable and relevant and give them a timescale. Write it down!

9. Set reminders to periodically review how the person is doing, ask whether they need
any help and to confirm that the task will be completed within timescale.

11. Jo Leckie
www.bigpicturetraining.co.uk
0845 1540164
info@bigpicturetraining.co.uk