There are a few reasons leaders struggle with delegating tasks to others. I would first suggest figuring out why YOU are struggling with delegation. Is it a fear of losing control? Is it a “It’s faster if I just do it.” mentality? Is it a lack of trust in the team that they can rise to the occasion? Is it a fear that you will just be burdening others with the tasks?

While these are all common, challenge your beliefs here. Sure, maybe you will do it better and faster than anyone else. But are you really the only person who can get it done? If you don’t trust that your team has the skills to take on the task, that’s on you. Teach them. Will you really be burdening others? Or, is that their jam and they wish they could have a go at it?

I think it is important to shift your view of delegation. Delegation is a powerful development tool. It helps your team learn new skills and shows them that you believe in their abilities.

And, it helps your career too. It frees up time for you to take on new things and grow. Failure to delegate can chain you to your current role indefinitely. If no one else can do what you do, how will you ever be in a position where you can be promoted?

So, delegate deliberately.

Provide clear direction. Don’t just say, “Do this and do it this way.” That may be helpful for some but focus first on the outcome. What does successful completion of the task look like?

Give clear support. Tell them WHY you are delegating this to them. Help them see that you believe in their ability to be successful and that you want to help them grow their skills so they can continue to advance in their career.

Let them do it! Give them the space and authority to take ownership and see the task through. Discuss and establish when and how they will check in and share their progress so you don’t feel the need to hover over their shoulder at every step. That isn’t good for you or them.

Give feedback. If something goes wrong, don’t just yank back the task and call it a failure. Coach them through it. Help them learn what they could do next time to get a better outcome. That is how they grow.

Delegation really is the key to take you from manager to leader.