Concentration of work in one hand, just like concentration of power can backfire. Therefore, delegation of work should play an important role in any organisation, says lalit Jain
Delegating work to others is the most important part of a manager’s job. It does not just imply assigning; rather it also entails ensuring that each and every points person delivers her assigned task successfully and on time. Delegation is not just empowering for the employees, but it is also a strategy towards better time management and implementation. It makes sure work is not concentrated at one centre or in the hands of one person.
Do what is necessary
Some managers take too much on their platter. It results in chaos. If the same person is preparing the monthly plans, dictating strategy, communicating with clients and taking feedbacks, chances are that some of these tasks may be delayed, forgotten, kept of the backburner and piled up for the month end. It is important to understand that you do not need to do everything yourself. Start delegating. Just keep the most critical tasks to yourself. When the employees will be entrusted with finishing a task, they will consider themselves responsible for it as well as accountable. They will learn, as did you.
Nurture new talent
A start up is not just about starting an enterprise from an idea. It is also about building a team from scratch. It is absolutely necessary that in a small start up the new members that are added know the company and its tasks inside out.
Right person for right job
It is absolutely essential to fit in the right person in the right place. Even well meaning, hard working employee may derail a project if they are not working according to their strengths. Identifying strengthens and weaknesses of a person. If a person is a sound communicator, make sure she focuses more on communication. The one with good managing skills must be put into management mode. This will increase productivity, save time and ensure maximum return on investment.
lead, not dictate
leading from the front is very essential. But leading doesn’t mean that you sit and dictate each and every effort required in a job. Give them the task, explain the broad requirements, set the deadline and let the employees figure out which way they want to achieve it. This prevents frustration in the employees.
Guide and help
Entrusting tasks does not mean that you lay down the job in front of the workers and make a retreat to your den. Since the employees are young and new, they will need the guidance of an experienced hand every now and then. Make sure they do not feel rudderless and lost.
Don’t be insecure
If an employee working under you is sparkling and showing promise beyond her experience, make all efforts to retain this person. Make this person feel rewarded for the effort she is putting in. There is no reason to be insecure.
(The writer is founding director of Annectos)