Entrepreneur Tip #4: Delegate, For Goodness Sake!
I dislike using negative words like “don’t” and “can’t” and “no,” but when it comes to delegating to others, I say to entrepreneurs, “Don’t be a control freak!”
Trust is so important in our personal and business lives. When we delegate tasks and projects to our employees, partners, vendors, etc., we show that we trust them to do a good job, and we don’t need to control every aspect of their work.
Now, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be checking in on them regularly to make sure they have everything they need to be successful. They’ll need your support along the way: a listening ear, a nod toward the right direction, a little recognition that they’re doing just fine.
Here are a few things you can do to let go of being a control freak while ensuring their success:
Give them specific instructions
If you want a specific outcome, let them know in detail what that outcome looks like, and then step out of their way. I’ve found people are eager to do a good job… and even more eager to do it their way. No one likes to be dictated to, or to be an order-taker.
So, let them tackle a problem or project in their own way. As long as they’re moving toward the outcome you’ve defined, let them manage the project using their strengths and expertise. I know it’ll be hard at times for you to keep your fingers out of the pie. Just be available to offer feedback and guide them when needed. And, be patient.
Reward their progress
When you see your employee making strides toward your defined outcome, praise them and their work. Some people are motivated by money, but studies have shown more people are simply motivated by being able to use their skills to work through issues and feel a sense of satisfaction.
Your positive input may be all they need. But once the project ends in a big win, feel free to take them to lunch, recognize their efforts in front of the entire company, or send them a handwritten note of thanks. Or do all of the above.
Create a no-problem culture
We all deal with issues and solve problems of all sizes every day. When you create a no-problem culture, people feel freer to try new things, to follow their instincts, knowing they won’t be punished if their efforts fail. No matter what happens, you all can fix any issues that arise.
Your team will feel empowered, rather than live in fear of messing up.
We all mess up! Knowing you can fix any issues without blaming and shaming will create a no-problem culture that will inspire creativity… and loyalty.
Let go and delegate. Trust your team. Don’t be a control freak.
And when you’re ready to protect your business, RaisinBread will be honored to help choose the right coverage at the right price. We’re entrepreneurs, too, so we understand delegating and keeping a no-problem attitude.
Please give me a call (602.456.9122) or email anthonywashington@myraisinbread.com. I’d love to learn more about your business and contribute to your success.
Anthony Washington has 30 years’ experience in the insurance industry and has now created RaisinBread, an insurance tech company that makes commercial insurance simple for business owners to understand and purchase.
