In this series of three posts, I will take you through the three key elements of efficient and effective delegation.
The the key elements are:
- Selection: How to choose, when, and to whom you can delegate
- Levels: How much input you have on the task delegated
- Structure: A process for the handover conversation
The previous post was on Selection. This week we’ll look at:
Levels
The level of delegation determines the amount, frequency, and type of your interaction with the completion of the task. Clearly, this is a product of the first two elements that we looked at: criteria and skill-will.
Levels of Delegation: 1 to 4
(1) “Wait to be told.” or “Do exactly as I say.”
(2) “Look into this and tell me the situation. I’ll decide”
(3) “Look into this and tell me the situation. We’ll decide together.”
(4) “Tell me the situation and what help you need from me, and in assessing and handling it. Then we’ll decide.”
As you can see from the first four levels, we’re moving slowly from no autonomy to some freedom to do the research into the task and how to do it, but no authority for action. This will suit the low skill team member.
Levels of Delegation: 5 to 7
(5) “Give me your analysis of the situation (reasons, options, pros and cons) and recommendation. I’ll let you know whether or not you can go ahead.”
(6) “Decide and let me know your decision, and wait for my go-ahead before proceeding.”
(7) “Decide and let me know your decision, then go ahead unless I say not to.”
Now, the level of autonomy increases up to them deciding the way forward and proceeding, unless specifically told not to do so. This implies a higher level of will, as the initiative required is increasing.
Levels of Delegation: 8 to 10
(8) “Decide and take action – let me know what you did (and what happened.”
(9) “Decide and take action. You need not check back with me.”
(10) “Decide where action needs to be taken and manage the situation accordingly. It’s your area of responsibility now.”
Now, we have far greater autonomy, as the level of trust and the skill increases right up to full empowerment and responsibility at level 10.
Use your analysis of the criteria for delegation, your knowledge of the level of skill and will in your team, and the levels of delegation to prepare to delegate appropriately.
Continue your journey to being an effective delegator – using this Levels tool to think about how much input you have on the task delegated.
Next post (in two weeks): Structure: A process for the handover conversation.
David Solomon
Managing Director, Sun and Moon Training
@SunMoonDavid
Photo copyright: jirsak / 123RF Stock Photo