6 Basic Steps to Successful Delegation

Written by Jimmie Sheffield

What is Delegation?

Leading from Your Strengths

Delegation is giving a job to someone, defining the parameters for accomplishing the job, and giving the person the authority to get the job done. Thus, delegating is never dumping.

Why Delegate?

• To get the work done
• To share the work load
• To grow disciples

What should I delegate?

• Jobs or responsibilities that someone can do better than you.
• Jobs that someone can do instead of you.
• Jobs that someone can do with better timing.
• Any job that will help a them grow and develop as a leader.

1. Define the assigned responsibility.

• Clearly define verbally and in writting the job you want accomplished.
• Allow the person time to respond to the assignment.
• Encourage questions and seek maximum understanding.

2. Establish the parameters.

• The schedule for completing the project.
• The budget available for the project.
• Other people to involve in the planning process.
• How often you want reports on progress.

3. Meet with the person or team.

• Set aside sufficient time for the meeting.
• Go over the assignment and parameters.
• Provide opportunity for input.
• Be open to changing the assignment and/or parameters.
• Come to a final agreement.

4. Let it go.

• In Matthew 10, Jesus gave His disciples instructions for the witnessing and serving he was delegating to them.
• In Matthew 11, after He sent them to carry out the assigned job.

5. Check up.

• Checking up assures you that the work is being done.
• Checking up also lets the person or team know that that you care about them and the assigned task.

6. Evaluate.

• Following the completion of the project conduct an evaluation meeting.
• Make the evaluation time a positive and growing experience for you and the person or team to whom the job was delegated.
• Express appropriate appreciation for the work accomplished.

Properly executed delegation presents a great opportunity for you to get on top of your job and will enable you and your church family to stay focused on God-given priorities. Make delegation a routine part of your leadership.

Jimmie Sheffield is retired. Before retiring he was Associate Executive Director, Arkansas Baptist Convention, Little Rock, Arkansas. Adapted from a previously published article. Used by permission.