Delegating within a research team

Delegation can be used for much more than getting rid of unwanted tasks at time of high pressure. With thought and planning, delegation can be a strategy that benefits both you and your researchers.

Delegation is entrusting to someone else a task you have responsibility for. It is not simply issuing an instruction to a member of staff; delegation usually requires you handing over a measure of responsibility for a job and allowing your researcher to use their judgement to overcome problems and obstacles that may come along. It is empowering someone to act on your behalf.

What are some of the benefits of delegation?

For you:  

  • Ensure an engaged and motivated team
  • Help you complete the project on time
  • Free up your time 
  • Allow you the space to develop as a leader
  • Enable you to appreciate the full range of capabilities of your team.

 For your researchers:

  • Development of new skills
  •  Increased motivation
  •  Exposure to new experiences and people
  •  Encourage a sense of ownership of the project outcomes
  •  Helpful in career progression.

Read here about what tasks could be delegated to members of your team and some advice on successful delegating.