Delegation Guidelines
Discussion Topic
Top of Form
Activity Time:
2 hours; Additional Time for Study, Research, and Reflection: 1 hour
Directions:
After viewing the video, “Delegation” and reading in your textbook, post your answers to the following questions.
- Briefly explain the Rights of Delegation and the potential error(s) that can occur with each when delegating a task.
- Discuss how these delegation errors be prevented?
Please make your initial post by midweek, and respond to at least two other student’s post by the end of the week.
Bottom of Form
- Rights of Delegation and Potential Errors:
a. Right Task: This means delegating the right task to the right person. Potential errors include:
- Task Misalignment: If the task does not align with the delegatee’s skills or responsibilities, it can lead to subpar results or inefficiency.
b. Right Circumstance: Ensure that the circumstances are appropriate for delegation. Potential errors include:
- Timing Issues: Delegating a task when the delegatee is too busy or when it’s not feasible can result in the task not being completed or errors.
c. Right Person: Assigning tasks to individuals with the right skillset. Potential errors include:
- Inadequate Training: If the delegatee is not adequately trained or experienced for the task, it can result in mistakes or delays.
d. Right Direction/Communication: Providing clear instructions and expectations. Potential errors include:
- Miscommunication: If instructions are unclear, incomplete, or misunderstood, the delegatee may not perform the task as intended.
e. Right Supervision: Monitoring and providing feedback when necessary. Potential errors include:
- Lack of Oversight: Failing to follow up or provide feedback can lead to the task going off track or not meeting the desired standards.
- Preventing Delegation Errors:
a. Right Task:
- Assess the skills and capabilities of the delegatee before assigning tasks.
- Provide training or resources if the delegatee lacks specific skills.
- Communicate clearly the desired outcomes of the task.
b. Right Circumstance:
- Consider the delegatee’s workload and schedule before assigning tasks.
- Ensure that the timing aligns with the delegatee’s availability.
- Take into account any external factors that might affect the task’s completion.
c. Right Person:
- Match tasks to the delegatee’s expertise and strengths.
- Offer guidance or mentorship if the delegatee is inexperienced in a particular area.
d. Right Direction/Communication:
- Clearly articulate the task’s objectives, expectations, and any specific requirements.
- Encourage questions and provide a platform for open communication to clarify doubts.
- Confirm the delegatee’s understanding before they begin the task.
e. Right Supervision:
- Establish regular check-ins or milestones for the delegatee to report progress or seek assistance.
- Provide constructive feedback and support as necessary.
- Be available to address any issues or questions that may arise during task execution.
By following these guidelines and taking preventive measures, delegation errors can be minimized, and tasks can be more effectively and efficiently completed. Additionally, open communication and a supportive relationship between the delegator and delegatee are key to successful delegation.