Delegation can be an intimidating word. By itself, it feels overwhelming. Most overextended leaders don’t even want to think about delegating because they’re not even sure where to start. One of the things we hear most from new clients is, “I’m already doing these tasks myself. It’s easier for me to continue doing them than to take the time to slow down and teach someone else”. Delegation doesn’t have to be difficult, and it can be taken one task at a time if necessary. Here are the 4 steps to delegation success!

1. Make a list

   Make a list of all of the tasks that you complete on a daily basis. You can even include tasks that come on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis. Write it down. All of it. If it’s helpful, walk yourself through your day, beginning to end. No matter the task, write it down.

2. Pick Two

   Now that you’ve got your list, examine each task, and then pick two that really drive the results of your company. These are tasks that are vital to the success and growth of your business and can include things like connector conversations, prospect nurturing, and connecting regularly with your clients. The tasks that you choose are the two that you’ll want to keep for yourself.

3. Examine

   Look at the other tasks on your list and begin eliminating the ones that prevent you from operating in your genius. Examples of these tasks could include things like scheduling calls/meetings/sessions, coordinating meeting and session logistics, responding to non-critical emails, etc. Are these tasks that you could outsource to an assistant?

4. Repeat

   With the two tasks you’ve claimed as yours and the other tasks that you feel could be outsourced to an assistant, return to step two and repeat the process until you have a list of tasks that you feel pretty good about. Remember, your tasks should be the ones that help grow your business. They should be tasks that keep you working on your business and not in your business. Tasks that put you outside of your genius should be delegated to an assistant.

   Some of our clients are eager to delegate everything at one time while others have a harder time letting go of the vine. No matter which person you are, know that delegation is a process. There’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. It can be taken in stride as you continue to build trust with your support person.