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The nature of a business owner is to get things done, which often means they must do it themselves, but as a business grows, this is no longer an option. Time may be better spent on key activities, leaving some less critical, but equally important jobs to employees. The hesitance with delegation is (1) it won’t be done right, and (2) it takes longer to train someone how then just to do it. However, the greatest benefit of delegation is to get more done, in less time, leaving your time free for business oversight or growth development. Proper delegation can achieve the benefits without negative repercussions. These simple tips can ensure a smooth transition of duties.

Assign deadlines

Project due dates are quite common, and there for a reason. Tasks that are delegated to an employee are commonly the repetitive tasks such as monthly reports or weekly summaries. For each task, assign the dates due for each employee and provide reference to the procedure manual to ensure the task is complete both on time and correctly.

Build a decision-making policy

Delegating the ability to make a decision can be trickier, but just as important. Some decisions, specifically regarding customer service, should be made promptly. These decisions would be tedious to answer all off them, and detrimental to customer service for a long delay. Establish criteria of when the decision can be made. For example, ensure the decision will adhere to business branding, will favor the customer experience, and cost the business no more than a predetermined amount. The employee will be given the flexibility to handle an issue, you will be spared the time of involvement, and the customer will receive expedient service.

Create a process

All tasks and responsibilities have a specific series of steps necessary for completion; this can be everything from greeting customers to shipping product. The way it has been done has been successful, and to pass off the task to someone else risks losing a critical, though not obvious step. Take the time to write down each tedious step of the process. Convert the notes to either a procedure manual or a checklist. Use the document a couple times to ensure all critical steps were captured. Turn this over to the employee for ongoing use. Occasionally ask for feedback from the employee, because over time the process may change as software is updated or vendors are changed, in which case, then someone must update the procedure manual and/or checklist. This will ensure that as the task is shifted to a new employee, the same consistency will be there.

These simple basics will save the business owner time and provide peace of mind. They will also show an inherent faith in employees, which can go a long way in improving morale.

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