If you are honest, delegating effectively is one of the toughest challenges you face. People avoid delegating for a number of reasons:

* Don't understand the need to delegate

* Lack confidence in team to do what they require

* Don't know how to delegate

* Tried and failed in the past so have a built in resistance

* Like doing a particular job so don't want to let go of it

* Don't understand their role as a manager

* Frightened of making themselves seem easily replaced

* Think they have no time to delegate

* Have nobody to delegate to

So how can you be more effective at delegating?

* Plan it in advance

* Think exactly what you want done

* Consider guidance needed

* Brief appropriately and check understanding

* Establish review dates and check understanding

* Create a buffer period so that there is time for revisions as required

* Delegate whole jobs, where possible

* Inform others who are involved

* Stand back, don't hover

* Recognise work may not be done exactly the way you would do it

* Delegate responsibility as well as task

About the Author

Duncan Brodie is a Leadership Development Coach and Management Trainer at Goals and Achievements http://www.goalsandachievements.co.uk

He specialises in helping accountants and professionals to make the transition from technical expert to manager and leader.