Today’s administrative assistants often work for multiple people, maybe even an entire department. They’re juggling never-ending deadlines, managing a variety of project commitments and maintaining meeting schedules, to name just a few, all the while prioritizing their own work duties of the day. They’re the gatekeeper and often the lifeline for keeping the office running smoothly and getting things done.
With “mean and lean” operations and the influx of tasks and responsibilities coming in different directions, many administrative assistants have also morphed into a supervisor, a role that affords delegation and, yes, some relief.
The role of a supervisor can be rewarding and fulfilling. It also comes with additional responsibilities and challenges. Not only are administrative assistants managing their own workload, they’re now overseeing other projects, deadlines, and tasks from those whom they’ve delegated the work.
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Effective delegation is one of the most valuable skills – and among the hardest skill – a supervisor can master. When done successfully, it reduces your workload, develops collaboration and strengthens your communication skills. Delegating prepares fellow team members to handle additional responsibilities and allows you to manage other pressing job responsibilities within your department.
However, without proper training, delegation can be daunting and even a little scary. What if the delegated work isn’t done to my standards? What if the delegated work isn’t completed on time? What if the person refuses to do the delegated work? These are common questions that first-time delegators ask themselves. The bottom line is you wouldn’t be put in a supervisory role if your boss didn’t’ think you can handle it.
The good news is delegation is a learned skill and can be mastered with practice and focus. Effective delegation is a win-win for you, your co-worker completing the work and your organization. It creates ownership and accomplishment. Delegation is an art and when mastered, makes for a productive group of professionals, working together for the end goal: Success!
When should you delegate some of your work?
What are ways to prepare for delegating?
What tasks should you delegate?
What tasks should you not delegate?
How do you know whether you are delegating well or not? If you are delegating well…
If you’re not delegating well, you may see these symptoms:
How do you know whether you are delegating well or not? If you are delegating well:
If you’re not delegating well, you may see these symptoms:
About the Author: Nancy Schnoebelen Imbs is an empowering professional development consultant, dynamic motivational speaker and author. Highly dedicated and results-oriented, she has the skill and passion for helping individuals become more confident and successful in business and beyond. She and her company Polished help clients focus on key adjustments that result in meaningful impact and effectiveness.
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