Delegate with Clarity
Delegation begins before a task changes hands. The person receiving the work needs to understand the result you want, why it matters, and which decisions they can make.
Describe what completion should look like. Include the deadline, quality expectations, and any limits involving budget, safety, or approvals. Ask the person to explain the assignment in their own words so you can catch misunderstandings early.
Agree on the support they will need and when you will check in. Match the level of guidance to their experience and the consequences of an error. Make it clear which problems should be raised immediately.
Once the work begins, honor the authority you have given. Ask about progress without taking every decision back. At the end, review the result together and discuss what each of you would improve in the next handoff. Delegation can become an opportunity to develop judgment as well as complete the work.
Try this week
For your next handoff, write down the outcome, deadline, decision authority, available support, and check-in time.
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