When you are a small business manager or owner you will need to learn the skills of delegation in order to grow. Maybe you think, “If I want it done right, I have to do it myself”. If so, you will find growth to be very difficult. Delegation is a discipline you will need to learn. Here are some helpful tips.
• Come up with a plan. Be specific about the who, what and when.
• Realize that others are able to do things as well, or maybe even better, than you.
• Be patient. It will take more of your time at first. You will need to train them and be available to help them as they learn.
• Choose people that show initiative. They are more likely to take the new responsibility and run with it.
• Decide how you will monitor progress. And be sure to communicate your expectations. Let them know how much they should have done, and by what time.
• Be sure you do not micro-manage. That ends up taking longer than if you had simply done it yourself. There will be a learning curve, but do not jump in and tell them what to do every minute. Give them some space and responsibility.
• Give them feedback. Once they have finished the task and handed you the results, be sure you give them recognition and any constructive criticism needed. Otherwise it will be hard for them to learn.
Once you have successfully handed off some of your duties you will be able to focus more on growing your business in the future.