Delegation

Delegation means the assigning of tasks to others. As a business grows and expands, the
scope of operational activities becomes more elaborate and complex. Therefore, for
efficient and effective expansion, day-to-day operational tasks need to be delegated to
subordinates so that the senior management can then focus on major strategic and policy
related decisions. However, the senior management should monitor the performance of
subordinates to ensure that work is carried out in accordance with company goals and
policies. This would require two-way communication and reporting systems. Delegation
also acts as a non-monetary motivating factor for willing (Theory Y) employees because
they are encouraged by more responsibility and importance. Thus, delegation enables
effective growth and expansion because workload can be shared.

Difficulties in delegation can occur either if managers are reluctant to delegate work to
others or if subordinates are reluctant to accept delegation. Managers may be reluctant to
delegate due to job insecurity i.e. fear of being replaced by subordinates, or they might
not have confidence in their subordinates’ capability. In the long run, this would severely
limit what managers can accomplish.

On the other hand, subordinates might be reluctant to accept delegation either because
they might be reluctant to work hard (Theory X), or they might fear criticism or even
dismissal due to mistakes. Lack of training might also cause reluctance among
subordinates to accept delegation. These problems can be resolved by the HRM
department by devising suitable motivation schemes and incentive plans for employees.