No man is an island. As you climb the corporate ladder, effective delegation becomes ever essential for your professional repertoire.
Why delegate?
Delegation results in a more efficient allocation of resources and a correspondingly higher quality of work. It also ensures everyone within the team has the opportunity to pick up new skills and grow.
Three golden tips for effective delegation
1. Plan ahead
No one likes being handed tasks at the last minute. Whenever a new assignment comes in, make it your first priority to map out a delegation plan, and give all your delegates advance notice so they can plan their time accordingly.
While tight deadlines and overtime work are inevitable in the Hong Kong workplace, make sure you show your appreciation for the personal sacrifices your delegates are making for the sake of the team.
2. Get to know your team
Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses, and developing a nuanced understanding of them will ensure you allocate assignments to the right people.
3. Provide a good brief
The best work is done when all members of the team have a clear understanding of the overarching objectives and their roles in the big picture. This is especially important when delegating tasks that may seem more menial or repetitive, as it improves the morale of the relevant delegate.
Whether you are a born micro-manager who has difficulty entrusting important tasks to others, or struggle to effectively supervise dispersed workstreams, it’s time to start delegating effectively for a more rewarding career!