Dave Ciambella

Just do it…be specific!
August 4, 2008

Would you consider yourself as one who delegates well? Many would say yes. However, I cannot begin to tell you how frequently I have encountered frustrated managers, employees, families, etc., who cannot withstand any more frustration. Let me share an example of what I mean.

A few years ago I met Sally who was a promising, blossoming successor. She was passionate, energetic and very intelligent. However, when we initially met, she dumped her bucket on me as she was so frustrated with her dad she could hardly be around him anymore. Dad continuously gave her tasks to complete and relentlessly asked her each day if she had finished a particular task. He appeared to have no regard for her schedule and what priorities she was working on at any given time. Needless to say, she had her own list of responsibilities that demanded her full time. As I sat in my chair processing our conversation, I asked Sally a question. When your Dad asks you to complete a task or follow up on something, does he request a specific date or time that he would like it to be done? Sally thought for a moment and replied, “no.”

Have any of you been in Sally’s position? Are you presently experiencing similar frustration? If so, let me encourage you to just do it…be specific! Give clear expectations with specific timelines when delegating to another person whether it is a subordinate employee or a close family member. Try it! I think you’ll find it makes a big difference.

Posted by Dave Ciambella on August 4, 2008 | Comments (0)