Ten-step delegation

Tool Notes How to use

Tool

	Step	Action
1	Identify the task or activity to be delegated	Ensure the task is something someone else can do effectively. It may be something that you want a team member to become confident in doing.
2	Identify the individual	Why this person? What will you as a manager gain from delegating? What will this person gain from taking on the task?
3	Evaluate ability and support needs	Are you confident that the identified individual has the ability and capacity to take on the task? Do you need to put support in place?
4	What are your reasons for delegation?	Explain why this task is being delegated and your reasons for choosing this person. Explain the value of the task and its place in the work of the unit.
5	Communicate required results	State clearly what has to be done, the stages involved and what a successful outcome will be. Provide written information if necessary. Check the requirements are understood.
6	Clarify what is required	Outline what is required to complete the task. This may involve getting support from others, or finding information from other units.
7	Set a time frame	Clearly state the expected deadline for completion of the task or, if it is an ongoing responsibility, when it will be reviewed. Agree a review date.
8	Ensure wider recognition	If the task being taken on involves the whole unit, ensure others know of this new level of responsibility and the need for support and/or cooperation.
9	Monitor progress and evaluate success	Once the task has been taken on, ensure follow-up meetings are scheduled to monitor progress. Review the stages completed by the individual and get feedback on their progress. Identify any obstacles and provide support in overcoming them.
10	Reward success	On successful completion of the task, or becoming confident in a new responsibility, ensure the individual is given positive feedback. Identify what has been gained and future opportunities for delegation.