From Don Gabor's book, Big Things Happen When You Do the Little Things Right.

The old TV ad, "Mother, please! I'd rather do it myself!" said it all. Most of us like the way we do things, but with today's workloads, we need all the help we can get to complete everything that needs being done. The following delegating tips will save you valuable time and energy so that you can focus on the high priority tasks that require your complete attention.

1. Before delegating tasks, prioritize and estimate a reasonable time frame to complete them.
2. Delegate the decision of when and how to do daily tasks.
3. Break down long or difficult tasks into shorter and more manageable segments.
4. Demonstrate difficult tasks by example, if necessary.
5. Encourage questions and more efficient ways to perform tasks.
6. Show how little tasks fit into the big picture so the person understands why they are important.
7. Ask, "Can you handle it from here?" or "What else do you need to begin?"
8. Check on his or her progress a short later. Provide any necessary feedback and then leave.
9. Avoid unnecessary interruptions once you have delegated the tasks.
10. Acknowledge your appreciation. Say, "Thanks for the good job."

Don Gabor is the author of Big Things Happen When You Do the Little Things Right and four other self-help communications books. For more information about his books, keynotes and workshops, plus a free copy of his tip sheet, 50 Ways to Improve Your Conversations, please send a self-addressed envelope to Don Gabor; P.O. Box 715, Brooklyn, NY 11215. Don can be reached at 718-768-0824, or visit his website at dongabor.com.