How to Delegate

In delegating responsibilities, consider the qualifications of the brothers you have in mind. When a need to care for the daily food distribution arose in Jerusalem, the apostles selected ‘seven certified men, full of spirit and wisdom.’ (Acts 6:3) If you ask an unreliable person to do a job, he may simply fail to carry it out. So delegate small tasks first. When a person proves faithful, he may be able to handle more responsibility.

Yet, more is involved. Personalities and abilities differ. Experience too varies from person to person. A brother with a friendly, pleasant disposition may do well as an attendant, while one who is orderly and systematic may prove most helpful as an assistant to the congregation secretary. A sister with artistic ability may be entrusted with arranging flowers for the Memorial.

When assigning responsibilities, specify clearly what is expected. Before John the Baptist sent messengers to Jesus, he explained to them what he wanted to know and the wording of the inquiry. (Luke 7:18-20) On the other hand, when Jesus instructed his disciples to collect the leftovers of miraculously provided food, he left the details to them. (John 6:12, 13) Much depends on the nature of the task and the qualifications of the helper. Both the one delegating and the one invited to perform the task should have an understanding of the expected results and the extent of progress reports to be made. Both should know how much is left up to the discretion of the person doing the job. If the task is to be completed by a certain date, it may be more motivating if the due date is discussed and agreed upon rather than simply being imposed.

The one assigned should be equipped with funds, tools, and help as needed. It may help to make the arrangement known to others. When Jesus entrusted Peter with “the keys of the kingdom of the heavens,” he did so in the presence of other disciples. (Matt. 16:13-19) Likewise, in some cases it may be good to let the congregation know who is responsible for a certain task.

Caution is also in order. If you still try to manage the job that you have delegated to someone, you will send him the message, “I don’t really trust you.” Granted, at times the result might not turn out exactly as you had expected. Yet, if the brother who has been given a responsibility is allowed some leeway, he will likely gain confidence and experience. Naturally, this does not mean being unconcerned about how he handles the task. Although entrusting a role in the creation process to his Son, Jehovah still involved himself in the work. He said to the Master Worker: “Let us make man in our image.” (Gen. 1:26) So by your words and actions, support the work being done, and commend the person for his efforts. A brief review of the result can help him. If the work is not being done properly, do not hesitate to offer additional advice or help. Remember, the final responsibility lies with you as the one delegating.​—Luke 12:48.

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HOW TO DELEGATE

• Select appropriate individuals for the task

• Clearly explain/​communicate

• Clarify what should be accomplished

• Provide necessary resources

• Be concerned about the task, and express your trust

• Be willing to take the final responsibility