Code is a wonderful outlet for creativity.
The rules, tools, principles, and methods all build on one another in such a way that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
Unfortunately, as we grow and advance in our careers, we usually find ourselves spending less time writing code and more time orchestrating the work of others.
Trouble is, sometimes these "others" don't value the craft in the same way you do. Or maybe they aren't as experienced and just won't see the problems ahead in the same way you do. Or maybe the last time you handed it over, they royally screwed it up, so it's better than you just take care of it...
No one said the transition was easy; it demands an entirely new set of skills and the realization that you have more valuable ways to spend your time!
Understanding What to Delegate
As you advance, your priorities shift. It's no longer just about what you can do individually but about what you can accomplish as a team. Identifying what to delegate starts with understanding your team and the tasks at hand.
- Identify Repetitive Tasks: Do you find yourself performing tasks that don't necessarily require your high-level expertise but still consume precious time? These tasks are perfect candidates for delegation.
- Spot Areas of Expertise in Your Team: Everyone has unique skills and interests. By recognizing these strengths, you can delegate tasks in ways that engage your team members and benefit the project.
- Assess Risks and Complexities: Some tasks, due to their high risk or complexity, might need your direct attention. It's critical to make discerning decisions about what to keep and what to delegate. Plus, these are GREAT training opportunities where you could do the navigating while a team member drives!
The Process of Delegation
Now that you've figured out what to delegate, it's time to understand how to delegate effectively. Remember, delegation is not a hand-off; it's a partnership.
- Setting Clear Objectives: It's crucial to define the desired outcomes but not to dictate the exact process. Trust your team members to navigate the path to results.
- Providing Necessary Information: Equip your team members with the context they need, but avoid over-explaining. Allow them room for creativity and problem-solving.
- Assigning Responsibility, Not Abdicating It: Delegation isn't about absolving yourself of responsibility. It's about sharing it. It's essential to remain involved, offer guidance, and ensure alignment with the overall project goals.
- Monitoring Without Micromanaging: It's like baking a cake. You want to check progress, but constantly opening the oven can ruin it. Similarly, continuous intrusions can hurt your team's productivity.
- Providing Feedback and Recognition: Constructive feedback helps in improvement, while recognition motivates. Celebrate wins and encourage learning from setbacks.
Trust and Autonomy: The Yin and Yang of Delegation
Trust and autonomy are the heart and soul of delegation.
- Building Trust: Trust is like the secret sauce that makes delegation work. As you foster an environment of trust, your team members feel valued and empowered.
- Allowing Autonomy: Delegation is not about cloning yourself in others. It's about allowing them to approach tasks in their unique ways within set parameters.
- Avoiding Micromanagement: Micromanagement can be a trust killer. It sends a message that you don't trust your team's abilities, which can undermine motivation and productivity.
Embrace Delegation
Effective delegation doesn't just improve productivity; it also builds a more engaged, skilled, and confident team. Delegation is a skill, and like any other skill, it requires practice and patience.
Trust, delegate, and let the magic happen.
Also published here.