In this episode, I talk about the fine art of delegation. I also share the five levels of delegation. If you want to succeed as a leader, it is imperative that you learn to delegate and delegate well.
My first year as marketing director, I vacillated between micro-managing everything and completely abdicating my role. It would be years before I would learn the art of delegation. However, the techniques I cover in this episode can help you go further, faster.
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One of the first recorded examples of delegation occurs in the book of Exodus, chapter 18. In leading the children of Israel, Moses was wearing himself out. His father-in-law, Jethro, gave him some very specific imperatives. These are as relevant today as they were then.
Imperative #1: Admit that working non-stop is unsustainable.
Imperative #2: Understand your unique calling
Imperative #3: Select qualified leaders to assist you
Imperative #4: Give these leaders responsibility and authority
Level 1: Do exactly what I have asked you to do.
Level 2: Research the topic and report back
Level 3: Research the topic, outline the options and make a recommendation.
Level 4: Make a decision and then tell me what you did.
Level 5: Make whatever decision you think is best.
Imperative #5: Only do those things which others cannot do.
Listener Questions
Adam Rico asked, “How do you avoid the feeling that you are adding another burden to an already overwhelmed team member when you delegate a task to them?”
Gary Morland asked, “What is the biggest mistake you can make when delegating?”
James Randorff asked, “What process do you have for checking your own heart to make sure you aren’t shirking your responsibilities when delegating?”
Jeff Sanders asked, “Currently, I don’t have anyone to delegate to. How do you know when it’s time to hire a virtual assistant?”
Laurie Coombs asked, “What does it look like practically for a leader to delegate?”
Nate Buckwater asked, “How do you overcome the challenges of delegating to people who are older than you are?”
Paolo Sini asked, “I have a hard time delegating. Can you give me any advice on changing this behavior?”
Phil Mershon asked, “I often have a difficult time trusting those to whom I delegate. What strategies can you suggest for overcoming these trust issues?”
Rabbi Evan Moffic asked, “What should I keep and what should I pass on?”
Special Announcements
The Platform Conference was a huge success. We held the two-day event at the Sound Kitchen here in Franklin, Tennessee. The speakers were awesome!The thing that made this conference different from most was the total engagement of our speakers. All but one stayed the entire time. They sat with the other attendees, took copious notes, and networked with everyone present.
I am pleased to announce that the next Platform Conference will be held November 3–5, 2013 in Dallas at the Omni Hotel at Park West. You can find out more and register on our website.