One of the most difficult things to do in life is to delegate to others, especially when you know you are very good at the task. Non-delegators generally believe it is easier and more efficient to complete a task themselves than to delegate it to others. Some worry that delegated work will be inferior to their own and will reflect poorly on their own leadership legacy. Others worry that delegated work may be superior to their own and may diminish their status in the eyes of their superiors. Though non-delegators may argue that maintaining control mitigates risk and lessens the likelihood of disappointment, they also admit that the price they pay for project protectionism is being frequently overwhelmed, and managing teams who are often underwhelmed.
The solution for both sides of the “whelmed” coin is delegation. Delegation is to relinquish control, to empower others, and to provide freedom for individual exploration. Delegation enables others to participate in meaningful ways and to develop the Emotional Intelligence competency of self-confidence. Delegation helps team members overcome feelings of powerlessness by authorizing them to act. Delegation balances workloads and actively engages every member of the team. Delegation requires courage and patience, and recognition that even though delegating may seem laborious at first, in the long-run, delegation increases productivity, creativity, efficiency, and morale.
To be truly effective, delegation relies on the principles of risk-taking, innovation, the collective pursuit of excellence, passion and commitment, and empowerment. Not surprisingly, these are the core values of Roseman University and are inherent in the University’s Mission and Vision. The Lifelong Colleague Commitment embodies the concept that we develop each other and help each other become the best that we can be. Delegation is the enactment of this commitment and is part of who we are at Roseman University of Health Sciences.
Author
L. Kris Munk, DDS, MS
Roseman University Associate Dean of Graduate Education