Delegation

Question 1

Address Your Own Control Issues

Answer 1

We need to move from the idea that there’s only one way to do things and into the idea that there are many different ways of doing things, even ways that might not be quite as good.

We need to move from the idea that failure is unacceptable and into the idea that, in a system, some failure is normal, and decide where we’re willing to give and where we’re not.

It’s about risk control

Question 2

Letting go of perfection

Answer 2

70 Percent Rule

If it can be done by someone else with about 70% the same level of quality and/or speed, just delegate it

It also creates great moments for mentorship and coaching.

Question 3

Decide What to Delegate

Answer 3

which activities COULD I delegate or outsource?
which activities SHOULD I delegate or outsource?
If even after delegation, I still need to control the outcome, or even not able to outsource, I should figure out a way to in the future.

Question 4

Delegation is not just about yourself

Answer 4

Think about not just yourself and what you can get off your plate but also what is going to lead to better outcomes. Both matter. By better outcomes, this could be that the task is completed more quickly, to a higher standard, or in a new, novel way that you hadn’t thought of. A better outcome could also mean creating an opportunity to develop someone or make them feel ownership.

Question 5

How to delegate them effectively

Answer 5

Own the “what”
Delegate authority, but never the responsibility. even if we delegate, we still own the outcome.

Share the “why”
People are motivated by “why.” What is the purpose behind this task? What will it accomplish? How does it feed into the bigger picture and higher-level goal?
In the Army, it’s called this “commander’s intent.”

Pass on the “how”
The “how” is what we really, truly delegate to someone. This is the responsibility for others to figure things out and come back with a solution. Passing on the “how” breeds ownership and responsibility.

Pass on the “wow”
Don’t forget to celebrate success and acknowledge a job well done! Even for failures, we can view them as another learning point.