You need to delegate a task to someone in another country. How do you ensure they understand the assignment?

1 Choose the right person

Before you delegate a task, you need to find out who is the best person to handle it. Consider their skills, experience, availability, and motivation. You also need to check their time zone, working hours, and holidays. You don't want to assign a task to someone who is not available or qualified to do it. Ask for recommendations from your colleagues or contacts in the other country, or use online platforms to find freelancers or contractors.

2 Explain the task clearly

Once you have chosen the person, you need to explain the task clearly and concisely. Use simple and direct language, avoid jargon or slang, and provide examples or references if possible. You can use written or verbal communication, depending on the complexity and urgency of the task. However, always follow up with a written confirmation that summarizes the main points and expectations. You can use email, chat, or project management tools to document the task.

3 Set the goals and deadlines

Another important step is to set the goals and deadlines for the task. You need to be specific and realistic about what you want to achieve and when you want it done. You also need to communicate how you will measure the quality and success of the task, and what feedback or support you will provide. You can use SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) to define the goals and deadlines, and share them with the person.

4 Establish the communication channels

To ensure that the task is progressing smoothly and that there are no misunderstandings, you need to establish the communication channels with the person. You need to decide how often, when, and how you will communicate with them. You also need to respect their cultural and personal preferences, and adapt your style and tone accordingly. You can use video calls, phone calls, emails, or chats to communicate, depending on the situation and the preference of the person.

5 Delegate the authority and responsibility

Finally, you need to delegate the authority and responsibility for the task to the person. You need to trust them to do the task well, and give them the autonomy and resources they need. You also need to avoid micromanaging or interfering with their work, unless they ask for your help or guidance. You can use delegation levels (from low to high) to define how much authority and responsibility you are giving to the person, and communicate them clearly.

6 Monitor and evaluate the results

The last step is to monitor and evaluate the results of the task. You need to check in regularly with the person, and provide constructive feedback and recognition. You also need to review the outcomes and the process of the task, and identify any issues or improvements. You can use performance indicators, feedback forms, or surveys to measure and evaluate the results, and share them with the person.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?