What do you do if you're unsure whether to delegate a task or handle it personally?

1 Assess Complexity

When you're on the fence about delegating, first assess the complexity of the task at hand. If it requires specialized knowledge or skills that only you possess, it might be best to tackle it yourself. On the other hand, if the task can be broken down into simpler components that others can easily understand and execute, delegation could free up your time for more critical tasks. Consider the learning opportunity for your team as well; if the task can contribute to their professional growth, it might be worth passing on.

3 Consider Deadlines

Deadlines are a critical factor in time management. If a task has a tight deadline and you're already swamped with other high-priority work, delegating can ensure that the task is completed on time. Ensure that whoever you delegate to has the capacity and the necessary skills to meet the deadline without sacrificing quality. Conversely, if you have the bandwidth and the deadline allows, taking on the task yourself might maintain continuity and consistency in the project.

4 Gauge Team Skills

Understanding your team's skills and workload is essential before delegating. If your team members have the necessary skills and some capacity to take on additional work, delegation can be effective. It's important to match the task with the right person - someone who not only has the skillset but also the interest to take on the challenge. If your team is already overstretched or lacks the skills for the task, it might be counterproductive to delegate.

5 Reflect on Outcomes

Consider the potential outcomes of both handling the task personally or delegating it. If doing it yourself will result in a significantly better outcome due to your expertise or stake in the task, it might be worth the investment of your time. However, if delegating can achieve a comparable outcome and provide a learning opportunity for your team, it could be beneficial for everyone involved. Reflect on what success looks like for this task and how each option aligns with that vision.

6 Trust and Control

Trust is a fundamental element when deciding to delegate. You need to have confidence in your team's ability to handle tasks effectively. If you struggle with relinquishing control, start with smaller tasks to build trust gradually. Remember, micromanaging defeats the purpose of delegation. Give clear instructions and the necessary resources, then step back and allow your team member to take ownership. This not only helps in building trust but also empowers your team.