Delegation

Just as the pressure for performance increases (making good delegation all the more imperative) many managers delegate less, partly because pressure increases their fear of failing. First of all, what is delegation, and what sorts of tasks should you delegate? 

Barriers to delegation - which of the following applies to you?

• I delegate, but mainly routine tasks.
  
• I make sure I tell people exactly how I want the work done.
• I delegate but I have to chase people to get things done.
• When I delegate I assume it will happen so I don't follow up.
• I delegate reluctantly because I hate losing control. 
• I do things myself to maintain my professional expertise.
• I do things myself to avoid making mistakes.
  
• No one on my team has the competence for important tasks.
  
• These pages are in Time Management but relate to delegation:
  
  • I prefer to do things myself rather than delegate.
  • My team is overloaded already. I can't ask them to do more.
  • I keep on top of everything in case I'm asked a question.

Tips on how to delegate effectively.