As we get close to the end of this small series of delegation tips I’m going to let you in on what I commonly call The Killer Question - ”do you understand?”
Get this phrase out of your vocabulary! It is such a closed question and leaves the listener to only answer with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Only a very small percentage of people will answer this question truthfully if they don’t quite have a grasp on the matter under discussion. The majority of listeners will still be absorbing your request and the question seems to close off their questioning skills.
So instead of shooting yourself in the foot by asking The Killer Question you might like to try asking something like:
- I’m bound to have overlooked some details. What would you like me to go over again? [This gives them a chance to think in a different way about the information]
- I know that’s a lot of information to take in at once. Go away, have a think about it, and come back in [and name a time that's convenient for you] with how you’ll go about it, and any further questions.
It is usually only once we start a task that we find the gaps in our understanding. Your listener will have the chance to really get their head around what you require from them and you will have confidence they are dealing with the work productively.
I love getting your comments and am delighted that these tips are helping you make the most of your precious time through more effective delegation.
If you’re interested in mastering more in-depth delegation and other time management skills you’ll find heaps more in ‘About Time: 120 Tips For Those With No Time’; ‘Getting A Grip On Leadership’ and also a chapter in ‘Getting A Grip On Time’.
And if you’re not already a subscriber to the Top Time Tips ezine which delivers regular time management tips direct to your Inbox, you’re very welcome to sign up – they’re free. Everything can be found at www.gettingagrip.com
