Delegate It

Taking control through strategic delegation

Running a business often starts with passion, expertise, and the dream of being your own boss. But talk to SME owners and you’ll soon hear a common frustration – they're doing everything. What began as a craft or service offering quickly morphs into juggling two full-time roles: practitioner and manager.

And that’s exhausting.

So why don’t business owners delegate? The answers are familiar:

• I’m too busy to train someone else

• No one else knows how to do it properly

• It’s quicker to do it myself

• If I let go, I’ll lose control

These excuses may feel valid, but they’re stopping your business from growing and costing you precious time with family, innovation, or simply peace of mind.

Someone Else Can Do It

Delegation isn’t about letting go of control. It’s about building control through systems. It’s the only real solution to stop your business from running you into the ground.

The short-term investment in training and planning pays off in long-term efficiency and freedom. Whether it’s stepping away from routine tasks to focus on strategy or just making it home for dinner more often, the cost of not delegating is higher than you think.

Ask yourself:

If you manufacture and install pool fencing, is your time better spent on installations – or could you generate more value by designing new products, improving your online marketing, or building relationships with suppliers?

Planning to Delegate Effectively

Delegation isn’t dumping a task on someone and walking away. It’s a structured process. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Define the Goal

Identify exactly what you want someone else to do. Be specific about the outcome and what success looks like.

2. Document the Process

Create a step-by-step guide. This becomes your internal manual for training and consistency. It avoids repeated questions and builds independence.

3. Set Performance Benchmarks

How long should each task take? What does ‘done well’ look like? Setting measurable standards lets you track progress and output.

4. Build a Reporting Mechanism

Maintain oversight without micromanaging. Use timesheets, checklists, KPIs, or regular check-ins to stay informed and support your team.

5. Train with Feedback

Training isn’t a one-off event. Provide regular feedback and support. The more confident your team becomes, the more you can let go, with peace of mind.

You’ll be surprised how many of your people can rise to the occasion, when given the right tools and expectations.

Delegation isn’t just a business tactic. It’s a mindset shift. It’s about stepping into your role as a business owner, not staying stuck in the trenches.

Used with permission from RAN ONE

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Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal financial, legal or tax advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this content at the time of publication, tax laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances vary. Dolman Bateman accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage incurred as a result of acting on or relying upon any of the information contained herein. You should seek professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any financial or tax decision.