Delegation is
the passing of authority down the hierarchy, i.e., subordinates are entrusted
with tasks by superiors. There
is an obligation to complete a task effectively.
Delegation can
only work upon the basis of mutual trust and the willingness of the boss to
relinquish control. The boss
must trust the subordinate to carry out the task effectively, whilst the
subordinate must be sure that the boss isn’t just passing on dull or
impossible tasks.
advantages (see decentralisation
advantages)
·
frees management time.
·
the development of a
sense of real participation and sustained motivation amongst subordinates.
·
commitment to
decisions once they are made.
·
management and
supervisory development on a personal level through the exercise of
authority.
·
much more flexibility
in decision making, which is essential in a fast changing business and
technological environment.
It is the
manager’s responsibility to define clearly to the limits of the authority
delegated and to ensure that the subordinate always has sufficient power to
back up that authority and it competent to use it.
Nevertheless, the manager remains responsible for the decision made by
the subordinate and there is therefore a constant temptation to interfere and
check on the performance of the subordinate (if this taken too far you will
lose all of the advantages).
|