For those of us who resist delegating work, there's a common belief: It'll be quicker if I just do it myself.

Well, that might be true – this one time.  But what about next time or the time after that...or the 20 times after that?



The real value of delegation is realized in the weeks, months and years that follow. People who are successful at handing over their work yield dividends each time the task is executed.

In other words, for every hour of your work week that you assign to someone else – you gain 52 hours a year that you could spend growing your business.
 
Here's some simple steps to get started:

1. Inventory your work – Keep a journal of how you spend your time for a week or two. No judgments here, just collect what you're doing, when you're doing it, and how long it takes you.
2. Identify delegation opportunities – Review your work inventory and look for high frequency, repetitive tasks, that are not in your area of expertise.
3. Standardize & Document Your Processes – Bullet point the steps for the process your delegating.  Don't overcomplicate this or make it a 'how to document'.  This is a checklist that you can build on and perfect through future iterations.
4. Show and Tell – Show them once how you want it done. Let them observe you doing it.  Then have them do it while you watch. Let them screw up. Every mistake is a learning opportunity. Your goal is not to get the task done here. Your goal is to transfer knowledge.
5. Set Expectations – For each (and every) task you delegate, articulate the outcome, timeline, budget.  Ask them to check in mid-way through the project so you can gauge progress and ensure their on track.
6. Feedback and look for process improvements – Be honest, but be kind.  As you work with a colleague you'll be building the foundation for future assignments.
7. Be patient – This above all. It'll take time and you may have to go through a few people before you get it right.  But after you start delegating your first few jobs, you'll get better at it. They'll get better at it and soon it'll become fun!

For more information visit my website:  www.small-business-guru.com

About Kelly Andrew Brown
Kelly Andrew Brown, has 19 years of experience leading entrepreneurial organizations.  He founded Small Business Guru in 2006 after serving five years as the Chief Operating Officer and Marketing Director for a small publishing organization based in Canton, Ohio.   Kelly Andrew Brown and Small Business Guru provide Coaching, Inspiration and Practical Advice for Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs.