[sws_picture_frame4 src=”http://clearconceptinc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/iStock_000002596819XSmall-Thank-You.jpg” title=”Thank you sign” alt=”Thank you sign” align=”sws_frame_left” lightbox=”1″ album=”album” video=””] [/sws_picture_frame4] I would not have had success in my business life without delegation.  Delegation has been the key to how I have scaled my business.  It would not have grown to $2 Billion without it.  And despite being a great proponent of delegation, I am always still learning how to do it better.  And I constantly analyze why I think I have had success in delegation and I think it is simply that I thank people for helping.

Thanks is motivational.  It is amazing what you can get with a simple verbal thank you.  Couple that with an email or even a personal note and you will be in the top 1% of delegators.

People love to be delegated to if they feel respected.  And they even “find time” if they respect the person delegating and are appreciated.

We all know the why to delegate.  Of course – to save time.  But that is not even the only reason.  A great reason to delegate is to let someone who is more capable do the job.  Delegate to someone who can do the task easier, better or faster than you.

Politeness is a must for all areas of delegation, regardless of the medium of communication. Always ask someone to do something, never demand. Often, the input that you receive from someone who you have asked to do the task is very helpful. Remember, you asked them to do the task for a reason: they are able to do it easier, better, or faster than you can. So be aware of their opinion and the suggestions that they have to offer.

Remember, we all have strengths and weaknesses. Try to coach people on their weaknesses, and respect them for their strengths. Ask them to accomplish tasks that accentuate their strengths. This is a question of properly using human resources. Don’t give the task to Bob when Sue will get it done faster, better, and easier.

Sometimes delegation is a long-term investment. If you take the time to train someone properly now, it will save both of you time and hassle in the long-run.

One of the most important elements of feedback is saying Thank You. This is not only common courtesy but common sense. If the people that you trust to complete your projects feel underappreciated, they will no longer want to do the task that you assign to them. Even if they do continue to do the work, they will be resentful or apathetic towards it, and as such, will not do a good job. So remembering to say a quick “Thanks!” is not only polite, but also important.

Jim Estill started a technology distribution company from the trunk of his car and grew it to $350,000,000.  After selling it, he ran the division from $800,000,000 to $2 Billion.  He wrote a book “Time Leadership – Using the Secrets of Leadership for Time Management.” Please see his blog: www.jimestill.com .