What do you do if your team members feel delegation is unfair and unequal?

They feel like it because it probably is! Your high performers are always going to take on more, keep doing more, will be at risk of being burnt out and irritant of low performers. Point is to balance out, intervene and ensure the bottom productive units move up to average. And you keep nudging the top players to bond and connect with the bottom rung. Redistributing tasks, giving the low performing members clearly outlined tasks and encouraging a mentoring spirit is key!

If your team feels delegation is unfair, first, actively listen to their concerns to understand specific grievances. Transparently communicate the rationale behind task assignments, emphasizing the alignment with individual strengths and development goals. Consider revisiting task allocations to ensure they are equitable and offer everyone a mix of challenging and routine tasks. Implement regular check-ins to discuss workload, provide support, and adjust responsibilities as needed. Engage the team in open discussions about delegation preferences and potential improvements. Foster an environment where feedback is valued and used constructively to refine processes and enhance team dynamics.

In my career journey, I’ve learned that fostering an environment where open dialogue thrives is crucial. Once, when delegation tensions arose in one of my early team leading role, I initiated a ‘Feedback Friday’ session. It was a safe space where each member, regardless of their role, could voice their concerns and suggestions. This practice not only cleared misunderstandings but also revealed hidden talents within the team. Encourage transparency and active listening. It can transform the team’s dynamics and lead to a more equitable task distribution.

Never decide for your team. This is the basis for all friction and dissatisfaction. 1. Bring all team members on a common platform. 2. Present the problem or opportunity. 3. Use a structured process that facilitates healthy debate and discussion 4. Enable the team to identify solution themes 5. Empower them to take ownership and responsibility 6. Give them the authority to select and decide the action plan, monitoring and coordination 7. Assure them of your availability and support 8. Let them lead and control the outcome 9. Thank them

To ensure a fair delegation process, it's crucial to assess the results of any changes made. Solicit feedback from team members to determine if perceptions of unfairness have been alleviated. Observe the effects on both team productivity and individual satisfaction to evaluate the effectiveness of your strategies. Continuous assessment and a readiness to adapt your approach are essential for sustaining an equitable and balanced delegation system. Keep striving for improvement and fairness in your team's dynamics.