Five Perfectly Bad Reasons Not To Delegate

"But it has to be done right!" my coaching client responded. They were struggling with an over-packed schedule and way too many activities for their week. I asked them to list some small tasks they could delegate to someone else on their team to free up some time resources. With hesitation they listed three potential items, and then gave the answer you see above. The session got real interesting when I asked them, "What does right look like?"

A hesitation to delegate is part of our DNA. It seems like a sign of weakness to admit that you can't do it all and need the help of others. The reality is that it is through delegation that we build capacity in others, create space for ourselves to do higher level work, and show others we trust them.

Here are the most common reasons (excuses really) people give me for not wanting to delegate, and my response (in my head at least) to such reasoning:

1) I don't want to put more work and stress on them.

So... you believe that the limited attention you can give them because you're overworked is healthy? A way to you to show up well as their leader or manager? A unique benefit of delegation is that you have more time resources to actually help them process how to complete the additional tasks and support them in their growth.

2) It takes more time to train them than it does to do it myself.

For the first few times, yes. But if the task is one that will be completed on a continuing basis, they will improve their efficiency and eventually you won't need to be involved as much. UNLESS you also subscribe to reason number 3.

3) I don't trust them to do it right.

As I said earlier, I think you have to define what "right" looks like and if that level of excellence is a business necessity or personal preference. If it is a business necessity, are you explaining the reason it has to be done that way? Are you giving them smaller tasks they can practice getting it "right" that can lead to taking on more later? And if your desire for something to be "right" is based on your personal preference, isn't it time for you to get out of your own way so you can focus on more important elements of your job?

Is your requirement for it to be "right" a business necessity or personal preference?

4) I don't want to delegate myself out of a job.

So there are no bigger goals or stretch assignments for you if you free up time in your schedule? Nothing you could pursue that could have an even larger impact on your or your team's success? Does the person you report to know you feel this way?

5) I don't have anyone to delegate to-it's just me.

This reason comes closer to actually being a reason than any of the others. However, I find that even in the cases where "you are the team" there are ways you can shift tasks to someone or something else. Sites like Guru.com have tons of people who will take on anything from graphic design to excel spreadsheets. Calendly will allow others to schedule meetings with you when you are available without any action from you once you set things up. I believe the important thing is to stop and ask the question, "Who might be able to help?"

I'd like to apologize for the sarcastic tone of this article BUT I can't let myself do it. Delegation is one of the most effective means by which to reduce your overload, strengthen the abilities of every member of your team, and show you are a manager or leader who trusts others. And if you still see delegation as a sign of weakness, read my article, 12 Really Good Reasons To Ask For Help.