Why is delegation an important management concept?

Answer 1

No one person can do it all. It is important to share the work around and to make sure that subordinates can do the work and the business can functions when the management are not there, on holiday or leave the organisation. It is important to consider succession planning and to look at growing some of your next managers from within (otherwise your best staff will not see any promotion opportunities). It is a good way to provide on the job training and to see what people are capable of outside their day job. It is good sometimes to have new ideas and not just rely on the same old faces. Some jobs are best suited to certain people and that is the way organisations should run. People can feel appreciated when they are given other roles.

One important point to keep in mind is that delegation is no excuse for abdication. Making someone responsible for an aspect of the management of the business is a fantastic way to build the skills base of the company and enhance the loyalty of employees. The downside is that sometimes, managers see delegation as just get on with it now that you have the responsibility but a good manager will still keep up to date on progress rather than just abdicating responsibility. Get the balance right and a business can fly.