Posted on Apr 28, 2014
Capt Brandon Charters
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We all have different approaches that we use to effectively delegate the large scale plans we've had to carry out in the military and civilian world. I remember experiencing a military boss that loved the 'rapid fire/shotgunned' email. I'm sure we've all come across a leader or two like this.

Does anyone still make the rounds to see all of their troops or employees on a daily basis? Maybe a weekly basis? Do you hold a daily management or stand-up meeting to lay out objectives and see that everyone is on the same page and understands the greater mission? Are there leadership tactics you've used in the military that no longer work in the civilian world? Have you found a way to cut out unnecessary meetings? I'd really like to know your secrets.
Edited 10 y ago
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COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM
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Edited 10 y ago
One way to think about delegation is to picture a quad chart with urgency on the x axis and importance on the y axis thus creating four boxes. Something that is high urgency and high importance should be done yourself. Something that is low importance but high urgency should be delegated. Something that is high importance but low urgency should be addressed via IPRs. Finally, something that is low importance and low urgency should be considered for divesting (don't do it). This obviously is a decision making framework regarding delegation. The means of delegation (email, in person, meeting) is a question of how to delegate not what to delegate. Both questions (how, what) are equally important.
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LTC Product Manager
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10 y
Sir- that is a great method of looking at it, thank you for the helpful suggestion.
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SSG Observer Coach Trainer
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Edited 10 y ago
I like to email to keep organized and record. But too often people use email and just "set it and forget i.t" proper follow up and interpersonal interaction reminds subordinates that leaders actually care, especially when there could be a need to answer questions, ensure the task is understood, and to potentially receive feedback which could make task completion/execution more effective.

http://youtu.be/tLq27iOW0R0
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Maj Walter Kilar
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If it is important, then I will go old school and delegate in person. If it is not important, then I will blast an official e-mail to the poor sap.
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Capt Brandon Charters
Capt Brandon Charters
10 y
Ever had someone sitting in the same room as you send you a simple task via email? That's the best.
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