Delegating a Task
Successfully delegate a complex task to an eager but anxious junior team member
SCENARIO
You need to delegate an important client presentation to Chloe Davis, a junior marketing coordinator. She's enthusiastic and hardworking but tends to struggle with confidence and may not ask questions when she should.
Objectives
- Delegate the task clearly with proper expectations
- Ensure Chloe understands timelines and deliverables
- Make her feel comfortable asking for help when needed
Skills you'll practice
How you'll be evaluated
COMMUNICATION
- Clear instructions
- Encouraging tone
- Open-ended questions
PROBLEM SOLVING
- Detailed planning
- Resource provision
- Safety net creation
EMOTIONAL
- Confidence building
- Psychological safety
- Support offering
Conversation goals
- Goal 1
Opening and Context Setting
Start the conversation by setting a supportive tone and explaining why Chloe was chosen for this task
KEY BEHAVIORS
- Acknowledge her strengths
- Express confidence in her abilities
- Set positive tone
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
- Chloe feels valued and chosen for good reasons
- Initial nervousness begins to subside
- She shows engagement and interest
- Goal 2
Task Overview and Importance
Clearly explain what the client presentation entails and why it's important to the team/company
KEY BEHAVIORS
- Provide clear context
- Explain the task's significance
- Share the bigger picture
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
- Chloe understands the task scope
- She grasps the importance without feeling overwhelmed
- Questions start to emerge naturally
- Goal 3
Detailed Requirements and Expectations
Break down the specific deliverables, timeline, and quality expectations for the presentation
KEY BEHAVIORS
- Be specific about deliverables
- Set clear deadlines
- Define success criteria
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
- Chloe can repeat back key requirements
- Timeline is clearly understood
- Expectations are realistic and achievable
- Goal 4
Resource Provision and Support Structure
Identify what resources, tools, and support Chloe will have access to complete the task
KEY BEHAVIORS
- List available resources
- Introduce key contacts
- Explain support systems
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
- Chloe knows where to find help
- Resources are clearly identified
- Support network is established
- Goal 5
Check-in Schedule and Communication Plan
OptionalEstablish regular check-ins and make it safe for Chloe to ask questions or raise concerns
KEY BEHAVIORS
- Schedule specific check-ins
- Encourage questions
- Create psychological safety
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
- Regular meeting times are set
- Chloe feels comfortable asking questions
- Communication preferences are established
- Goal 6
Confidence Building and Final Agreement
Reinforce confidence in Chloe's abilities and get her explicit agreement to take on the task
KEY BEHAVIORS
- Reinforce her capabilities
- Address any final concerns
- Get clear commitment
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
- Chloe expresses confidence (even if nervous)
- Any final questions are addressed
- Agreement is reached and Chloe accepts the task